October 14, (THEWILL) — The National Assembly has begun moves to amend the Electoral Act 2022, proposing a major shift in Nigeria’s election timetable that would move presidential and governorship polls from February/March to November 2026.
Lawmakers said the proposed change is aimed at streamlining the electoral process and ensuring that all election disputes are resolved before the swearing-in of new officeholders.
At a public hearing organised by the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters of the Senate and House of Representatives, the legislators explained that the adjustment would give sufficient time for the conclusion of petitions before the May 29 inauguration date.
Under the proposal, elections would be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the current administration’s tenure, effectively placing the next general elections in November 2026.
The amendment also seeks to move the power to set election dates from the Constitution to the Electoral Act, granting lawmakers and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) greater flexibility in future adjustments.
In addition, the reform proposes shorter timelines for the resolution of election petitions, with tribunals to deliver judgments within 90 days and appellate courts within 60 days, ensuring that all disputes are settled before the swearing-in of newly elected officials.
Other proposed changes include early voting for security personnel, INEC staff, journalists, and accredited observers; mandatory electronic transmission of results with manual backup; stiffer penalties for electoral offences; and provisions for INEC to approve alternative voter verification methods.
The Independent National Electoral Commission and several civil society organisations have expressed support for the initiative, describing it as a step toward improving transparency, efficiency, and credibility in Nigeria’s elections.
The amendment bill will undergo further legislative deliberations and harmonisation before it is passed into law.
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