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 allow 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 rising financial burden of elections, which escalated from ₦1.5 billion in 1999 to ₦350 billion in 2023. He argued that staggered elections are inefficient, costly, and contribute to voter fatigue.
“The current staggered election process is a major financial burden. Holding all elections on the same day will save costs, improve voter turnout, and reduce political tension,” Mustapha stated.
While several lawmakers supported the bill, some raised concerns over INEC’s capacity to manage a nationwide election in a single day. Senator Adams Oshiomhole cautioned against rushing the reform, highlighting potential logistical challenges and the risk of voter confusion due to multiple ballot papers.
“The bill has good intentions, but we must ask: Is INEC equipped to conduct all elections in one day? We must also consider the confusion that multiple ballot papers could create, especially for illiterate voters,” Oshiomhole warned.
The Senate is expected to subject the bill to further deliberations in the coming weeks before making a final decision.
