The Senate has begun consideration of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2026, moving into a closed-door session to review documents submitted by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong.
The private session allows lawmakers to examine proposed amendments and supporting documents in detail before further legislative debate.
The development followed a one-day deferral on Wednesday, giving senators time to prepare for a comprehensive review.
Although the House of Representatives has already passed the bill, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasised the need for careful scrutiny due to the legislation’s potential impact on Nigeria’s electoral process.
“This is a very important bill, especially as it is election time. We must take our time to ensure justice is done to all, so that we do not end up at the tribunal,” he said.
According to the committee, a clause-by-clause analysis shows that enacting the legislation would strengthen electoral integrity, enhance transparency, and boost public confidence.
The reforms are expected to expand voter participation, safeguard against fraud, and strengthen INEC’s institutional capacity.
The bill, if passed, would repeal and re-enact the current Electoral Act, incorporating these amendments to ensure credible elections ahead of the 2027 polls.
