A bill seeking to empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct all general elections on the same day has passed its second reading in the Senate.
The proposed amendment to the Electoral Act 2022 aims to reduce election costs, shorten campaign periods, and permit elected officeholders to serve as ad hoc delegates in party congresses.
Leading the debate on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Senator Saliu Mustapha emphasized the escalating financial burden of elections, which has surged from ₦1.5 billion in 1999 to ₦350 billion in 2023.
He argued that staggered elections are costly, inefficient, and contribute to voter fatigue.
“The current system of holding elections in phases is a significant financial strain. Conducting all elections on the same day will cut costs, boost voter turnout, and minimize political tensions,” he stated.
While the bill garnered widespread support from several senators, some lawmakers raised concerns about INEC’s capacity to manage a nationwide election in a single day.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole warned against rushing the reform without ensuring adequate preparedness.
“The bill has noble intentions, but we must ask ourselves: Is INEC truly equipped to handle all elections in one day? We must also consider the potential confusion that multiple ballot papers could create, particularly for illiterate voters,” he cautioned.
The Senate is expected to subject the bill to further scrutiny in the coming weeks.
