The Senate of Nigeria has postponed its deliberations on the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2026, choosing to subject the proposed changes to more detailed scrutiny and closed-door discussions before making a final decision.
The decision came during Wednesday’s plenary session, which was held in the absence of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong.
Lawmakers agreed to step down the debate, giving senators additional time to study the bill’s provisions thoroughly. Consideration is now expected to resume on Thursday.
In addition to deferring the report, the Senate resolved to meet in an executive session to discuss sensitive aspects of the proposed reforms behind closed doors. The move reflects concerns about the broad implications of the legislation, especially as the nation prepares for future elections.
While the House of Representatives has already passed the bill, senators insist on a careful and deliberate review process. Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasised the importance of thorough scrutiny, noting that the Electoral Act is pivotal to electoral integrity and must be handled with care.
“This is a very important bill, especially as we approach 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 report from the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, a clause-by-clause examination suggests that the amended bill, if enacted, could strengthen transparency, expand voter participation, improve public confidence in elections, and boost the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).