TDSenator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory and serving on the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, has issued a press release clarifying the ongoing work on Nigeria’s Electoral Reform Bill.
Background of the Reform Process
Senator Kingibe emphasized that since 2024, the National Assembly has undertaken an intensive and inclusive process to reform Nigeria’s electoral framework.
This included:
- Public Hearings & Policy Retreats: Conducted jointly by the Senate and House of Representatives.
- Stakeholder Participation: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Civil Society Organizations served as technical partners.
- Consensus Building: Rigorous debate and consultation produced a comprehensive report reflecting Nigerians’ aspirations for credible elections.
Key Pillars of the Reform Report
The Senator outlined three deliberate pillars anchoring the reform:
- Electronic Transmission of Results: Mandating real-time upload of election results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV) to enhance transparency.
- Party Primaries Flexibility: Recognition of direct, indirect, and consensus primaries within a regulated framework.
- Defined Election Timelines: Clear schedules to ensure orderly, transparent, and credible elections.
Senate Deliberations
Kingibe noted that when the report was presented, an ad hoc committee reviewed it, and its recommendations largely aligned with the original proposals.
Importantly, about 85% of Senators supported electronic transmission of results.
She expressed concern over reports suggesting the Senate rejected reforms or reverted to the 2022 Electoral Act.
She clarified that while the 2022 Act used the term “transfer” of results, the committees specifically recommended that INEC shall electronically transmit results and upload them to IREV in real time.
Current Status
The Senator explained that the harmonization process between the Senate and House of Representatives is still ongoing.
A correspondence committee has been constituted to align both versions into a single final bill.
Although the bill has passed third reading, the harmonized version is yet to be concluded.
Senator Kingibe’s Call to Action
Kingibe urged Nigerians to remain calm but actively engaged:
- Hold Representatives Accountable: Reach out to Senators and House members.
- Demand Transparency: Insist that the final bill protects votes and democratic rights.
- Stay Engaged: Ensure the reform outcome reflects the will of the people.
She concluded: “We are your representatives. We are your voice. And your will must shape the laws that govern you.”
Senator Ireti Kingibe’s statement underscores the importance of transparency and public engagement in Nigeria’s electoral reform process.
With harmonization still pending, the final outcome will determine whether reforms deliver on promises of credibility and inclusivity in future elections.
