Kogiflame
Civil society groups have called on the Senate not to undermine electoral transparency and urge urgent reversal to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy.
In a joint statement issued by Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Kukah Center International Press Centre (IPC), Nigerian Women Trust Fund,
TAF Africa and Yiaga Africa said
the undersigned civil society organisations express deep concern over the Nigerian Senate’s vote on key electoral amendment proposals, which have resulted in the rejection of some of the most consequential legal changes required to strengthen electoral transparency, inclusion, and credibility.
“The Senate rejected provisions allowing voters to download missing or unissued voter cards, blocked electronic transmission of election results, and significantly compressed critical electoral timelines. The notice period for elections was reduced from 360 to 180 days, the deadline for political parties to submit candidate lists was cut from 180 to 90 days, and the timeframe for INEC to publish nominations was slashed from 150 to 60 days. These changes weaken public scrutiny, constrain institutional preparedness, and increase the risk of electoral manipulation
“While the Senate’s decision to increase the fine for offences related to the buying and selling of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) to ₦5 million is a step in the right direction, it falls short of a stronger deterrent framework. The rejection of the proposed 10-year ban weakens accountability for electoral malpractice and undermines efforts to curb vote-buying and corruption in Nigeria’s electoral process. Stronger sanctions, including electoral disqualification, are necessary to protect the integrity of the ballot and restore public confidence in democratic institutions.
“Taken together, these decisions represent a retreat from the principles of transparency, certainty, and voter rights that underpinned the passage of the Electoral Act 2022. They also contrast with the more progressive position earlier adopted by the House of Representatives, deepening concerns about the Senate’s commitment to credible elections. We note the statement issued by eleven Senators dissociating themselves from the Senate’s vote
The group therefor call on other Senators to place the national interest above partisan considerations by insisting that the Senate reverses its position, adopts real-time electronic transmission of results, and retains the existing timelines for key pre-election activities.
They not d that legal amendments must privilege citizens’ confidence in the electoral process, strengthen INEC’s capacity to conduct credible elections and limit the perceived self-interest of politicians.
“We urge citizens, INEC and all stakeholders to demand that the Senate push back on this vote by seizing the opportunity of the Conference Committee of the two Chambers. At a time when public trust in elections remains fragile, Nigeria cannot afford legal provisions that narrow transparency, weaken oversight, or privilege political convenience over democratic integrity.
