Senate has begin consideration of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2026, moving into a closed-door session to review detailed documents submitted by Senator Simon Lalong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.
The private session allows lawmakers to examine the proposed amendments thoroughly before resuming public debate on the bill. The upper chamber had deferred discussion on Wednesday to give senators time to prepare for a detailed review.
Although the House of Representatives has already passed the bill, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the importance of careful scrutiny, citing the bill’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,” Akpabio said.
Committee findings indicate that enacting the legislation could leave a lasting legacy of electoral integrity, enhance transparency, and boost public confidence. The committee recommended that the Senate pass the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2026, highlighting reforms designed to expand voter participation, prevent electoral fraud, and strengthen INEC’s capacity.
The Senate’s decision on the bill is expected to shape electoral governance ahead of upcoming national elections.