The House of Representatives has amended the Electoral Act 2026 to introduce penalties for individuals who hold membership in more than one political party at the same time.
Lawmakers passed the amendment during plenary on Wednesday, March 11, adding new provisions aimed at regulating political party affiliation in the country.
The amendment introduces three additional subsections to Section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026, which addresses issues relating to membership of political parties.
Under the proposed changes, anyone discovered to be registered in more than one political party simultaneously will have such memberships declared invalid.
“A person shall not be registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time,” the provision reads.
READ ALSO: Four Reps Dump PDP, LP For APC, One Joins Accord
The amendment further explains the consequences for individuals found to have dual party membership.
“Where it is established that a person is registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time, such dual membership shall be void, and the person shall cease to be recognised as a valid member of any political party pending regularisation in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the constitution of the political party concerned.”
It also prescribes penalties for offenders.
“A person who knowingly registers or maintains membership in more than one political party at the same time commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of ₦10,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term of two years, or both.”