Bill Proposing Simultaneous Elections Passes 2nd Reading

A bill proposing the consolidation of all Nigerian elections into a single day has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

The bill, sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere, Francis Ejiroghene Waive, and 34 other lawmakers, seeks to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to provide for simultaneous elections for the offices of President, State Governors, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Area Councils.

The proposed legislation, presented for a second reading by the House leader, Julius Ihonvbere, aims to have all elections conducted on the same date, determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission in consultation with the National Assembly.

Speaking on the general principles of the bill, Ugochinyere explained that its passage will mark a significant step towards potential electoral reform in Nigeria and If enacted, the legislation could streamline the country’s electoral process, potentially reducing costs and logistical challenges associated with staging multiple elections.

The bill will now proceed to the committee stage, where it will undergo further review and debate before potentially advancing to a third reading and final vote.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Blessing Nyor