INEC RECs Face Two-Year Jail for Electoral Document Failures

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is facing significant legal changes that could result in a two-year prison term for Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) who do not release certified true copies of electoral documents within 24 hours of payment. This amendment is part of broader reforms aimed at reshaping Nigeria's electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele discussed these provisions during a public debate in Abuja. Additionally, the amendments increase penalties for electoral offenses, including vote buying and result manipulation, which could also lead to two years in prison and fines ranging from 500,000 to 2 million Naira, depending on the offense.

The law mandates the electronic transmission of election results, with penalties for INEC officials who fail to comply. Furthermore, campaign spending limits have been raised significantly, with presidential candidates now allowed to spend up to 10 billion Naira.