The National Assembly has taken a significant step towards reforming Nigeria’s electoral process by transmitting the Electoral Act 2021 to President Muhammadu Buhari for approval. This development was confirmed by Senator Babajide Omoworare, Senior Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly (Senate), in a statement on Friday night.
Constitutional Requirements
The transmission of the Electoral Act 2021 to the President is in accordance with Section 58(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Acts Authentication Act Cap. A2 LFN 2004. This constitutional requirement ensures that the President has the opportunity to review and approve or veto the bill before it becomes law.
Implications for the 2023 General Elections
The Electoral Act 2021 aims to improve the country’s electoral process and address some of the challenges experienced in previous elections. The bill’s passage is critical for the success of the 2023 general elections. With the transmission of the bill to the President, Nigerians eagerly await his decision, hoping that the new law will enhance the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.
Contentious Issues
However, the Electoral Act 2021 has generated controversy, particularly regarding the mode of primary elections. The National Assembly has mandated political parties to conduct direct primaries, while governors and some stakeholders prefer retaining indirect and consensus options. The disagreement led to a deadlock in a meeting between the National Assembly leadership and All Progressives Congress (APC) governors at the Presidential Villa.
Next Steps President Buhari’s decision on the Electoral Act 2021 will have significant implications for Nigeria’s electoral landscape. Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami SAN, has assured that the President’s position will be guided by national interest. Nigerians await the President’s action, hoping for a positive outcome that will strengthen the country’s democracy. The Electoral Act 2021’s fate now lies in President Buhari’s hands, and his decision will shape the course of Nigeria’s electoral future.
