Nigerian Lawmakers Propose Tougher Penalties for Vote Buying in Electoral Act Amendments

The Nigerian House of Representatives has moved to amend the Electoral Act to bar vote buyers from contesting elections. The proposed amendments include introducing minimum jail terms of two years and fines of N5 million for offenders, along with a 10-year disqualification from contesting elections.

The amendments aim to tighten result management, enhance transparency in the electoral process, and address multiple voter registration issues. The changes also include provisions for the release of electoral funds by INEC and the extension of deadlines for candidate submissions.

The amendments seek to strengthen sanctions against electoral malpractice and violations.