The National Assembly has proposed a major reform in Nigeria’s electoral framework that would allow prison inmates to participate in elections, as part of the ongoing amendment of the country’s electoral law.
The proposal was disclosed by the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, ahead of the National Assembly’s resumption from the Christmas recess.
He also revealed that the amendment would compel the release of funds for general elections at least one year before polling day.
Bamidele explained that the Electoral Bill, 2025 contains no fewer than 20 major innovations designed to clearly distinguish it from previous electoral laws.
“We have started the review of the Electoral Act, 2022 clause by clause to achieve this end. With the Electoral Bill, 2025, we have achieved quite a lot to improve how we manage our elections; enhance the credibility of the process and ensure the political parties are accountable.
“This vision is in line with the sustained public demands for an electoral system that will guarantee the security of votes.The Electoral Bill, 2025 introduces no fewer than 20 defining highlights that will eventually differentiate it from the previous electoral regimes.
“First, under Section 12 (1-2), the Bill recognises the voting rights of prisoners and the obligations of the Independent National Electoral Commission to register all eligible inmates in all correctional facilities nationwide.
“Also, under Section 3 (3), the Bill mandates that funds for general elections must be released at least one year before the day of the elections. Obviously, this reduces uncertainty that often clogs the operation of the INEC and strengthens its independence.”
According to the Senate leader, the proposed reforms are aimed at strengthening the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, improving election administration, and responding to long-standing calls for transparency and accountability in the conduct of elections.
He noted that extending voting rights to inmates aligns with democratic principles, while early release of election funds would reduce operational bottlenecks faced by the Independent National Electoral Commission and promote institutional autonomy.
The proposed amendments are expected to generate wide public debate as lawmakers continue deliberations on the Electoral Bill, 2025.
What you should know
The Electoral Bill, 2025 represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s electoral landscape by proposing voting rights for prison inmates and guaranteeing early release of election funds.
If passed, the bill would place new obligations on INEC to register eligible inmates nationwide and reduce funding uncertainties that have historically affected election preparation.
The reforms are designed to enhance credibility, independence, and efficiency in Nigeria’s electoral process while aligning it more closely with democratic norms.
