NASS Proposes Key Electoral Act Reforms Ahead of 2027

The National Assembly (NASS) has outlined significant reforms to the Electoral Act, emphasizing the establishment of a dedicated fund for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the implementation of electronic transmission of election results. Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti Central, detailed these reforms, which are intended to ensure financial autonomy for INEC and improve the integrity of the electoral process.

The reforms include provisions for a two-year imprisonment for officials who withhold essential documents and mandates the release of election results through electronic means. The new legislation also expands INEC's powers to review results declared under duress and requires the commission to release certified true copies of election documents within 24 hours.

These changes are part of a broader effort to prepare for the 2027 general elections and address public demands for a more transparent electoral system.