A fresh amendment to Nigeria’s 2026 Electoral Act has ignited intense debate across political and legal circles, following a controversial proposal by the House of Representatives to penalize individuals holding membership in more than one political party.
The amendment, passed swiftly through first, second, and third readings, introduces new provisions to Section 77 of the Act. It prescribes a fine of ₦10 million, a two-year prison sentence, or both, for anyone found guilty of dual party membership. Offenders would also forfeit recognition in both parties until their status is regularized.
The bill, sponsored by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, states that no individual shall be registered in more than one political party simultaneously. It further describes such dual affiliation as invalid and subject to legal sanctions.
Lawmakers Divided
The proposal has sharply divided members of the House. Chairman of the Committee on Solid Minerals, Jonathan Gaza, backed the bill, describing multiple party membership as deceptive and inappropriate.
However, opposition emerged from lawmakers such as Abubakar Fulata, who argued that the amendment conflicts with Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association.
“This appears to violate citizens’ constitutional rights,” Fulata said, suggesting instead that individuals be limited to one party for electoral purposes rather than outrightly banned from multiple affiliations.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, defended the proposal, insisting that dual party membership amounts to “fraudulent misrepresentation” and undermines ideological clarity in politics.
Opposition Voices Raise Alarm
Beyond the National Assembly, the amendment has drawn strong criticism from opposition figures and political analysts.
Prominent among them is Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who described the bill as unconstitutional and a direct threat to democratic freedoms.
“It is unconstitutional to punish a person for joining political parties,” Adebayo stated, arguing that the Constitution permits association with multiple groups, even if electoral participation is limited to one platform.
He further accused lawmakers of pursuing self-serving legislation aimed at shielding the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the administration of Bola Tinubu from internal instability.
Analysts Question Motives
Legal and political analysts have also weighed in, suggesting that the amendment may be a preemptive move to curb potential defections within the ruling party.
Public affairs analyst Maarcellus Onah linked the proposal to growing dissatisfaction within the political class, fueled by economic hardship, insecurity, and declining public confidence in government.
According to him, the legislation could be designed to discourage politicians from abandoning the ruling party amid worsening national conditions.
Broader Democratic Concerns
Critics argue that the amendment raises serious questions about the commitment of the government to ensuring a level playing field ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While the APC currently holds a dominant position—with a majority of governors and lawmakers—opponents insist that political defections do not necessarily reflect public sentiment.
“The people, not political elites, will ultimately decide,” Adebayo emphasized.
As debate intensifies, the proposed amendment is likely to face further scrutiny, particularly regarding its constitutional validity and potential implications for Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
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