The Senate has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to reduce election costs and implement same-day voting for all elective offices in Nigeria.
The bill, known as the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) and was first read on February 12, 2025.
Leading the debate, Mustapha highlighted the need for electoral reforms to address the rising financial burden of elections, noting that the cost had surged from N1.5 billion in 1999 to N350 billion in 2023. He described this increase as unsustainable and a threat to the democratic process.
The bill proposes holding all elections on the same day to reduce expenses, boost voter turnout, and minimize logistical challenges. It also seeks to shorten the campaign period to ease financial pressures on political parties, candidates, and the government.
Another key amendment would allow elected officeholders, including the President, Vice President, Governors, and National Assembly members, to serve as ad hoc delegates in their party conventions, a privilege currently restricted under the 2022 Electoral Act.
Mustapha urged his colleagues to support the bill, citing examples from countries like the United States, India, and Brazil, which have implemented same-day elections to cut costs and improve electoral efficiency. He emphasized that Nigeria could save significant funds that could be redirected to critical infrastructure projects.
