By Muhammad Mamman
In a groundbreaking move, the House of Representatives has unveiled plans to synchronise all Nigerian elections—presidential, senatorial, House, gubernatorial, and state assembly—into a single, high-stakes polling day in 2027. This ambitious proposal, embedded in the Electoral Act 2025 Bill, seeks to overhaul the nation’s electoral framework, promising efficiency, cost savings, and a streamlined democratic process.
The bill introduces sweeping changes to modernise Nigeria’s elections. Under the proposed amendments, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would gain the authority to conduct all major elections simultaneously, a shift designed to reduce voter fatigue and logistical burdens. Elections would take place 120 days before the end of current officeholders’ terms, with legal challenges resolved within a brisk 90-day window post-vote.
To curb excessive campaign spending, the bill sets strict financial caps: presidential candidates face a N10 billion limit, while gubernatorial hopefuls are restricted to N3 billion—up from the previous N1 billion ceiling. Senate campaigns are capped at N500 million, House of Representatives at N250 million, and state assembly and chairmanship races at N30 million. Councillorship candidates would be limited to N10 million.
In a bid to stabilise representation, the House also proposes a solution to frequent by-elections triggered by resignations or deaths. Political parties would nominate replacements for vacated seats, ensuring continuity without the need for costly polls.
Additionally, the bill raises the bar for new political parties, requiring a hefty N50 million registration fee to deter frivolous entries. Titled “A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Electoral Act No. 13, 2022 and Enact the Electoral Act 2025,” this legislation aims to regulate federal, state, and Federal Capital Territory area council elections with unprecedented clarity.
As Nigeria gears up for this potential electoral revolution, the nation watches closely. Will 2027 mark the dawn of a bolder, more unified democracy? The answer lies in the hands of the National Assembly.
