Senate Outlines Major Reforms In Electoral Act 2026 For Transparent Polls

Nigeria’s Electoral Act 2026 has been enacted as a major reform of the country’s voting framework, introducing electronic transmission of results, compulsory use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, and digital membership registers for political parties in an effort to strengthen transparency and credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the legislation was the outcome of extensive consultations spanning two years with electoral stakeholders, including Independent National Electoral Commission, civil society groups, and governance experts.

He stated that inputs from the consultations shaped the final provisions before the bill was forwarded for presidential assent.

According to lawmakers, the harmonized bill passed both chambers of the National Assembly of Nigeria and received presidential assent within 24 hours from Bola Tinubu, a move described as necessary to eliminate legislative uncertainty as preparations for the 2027 elections progress.

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The new law establishes a dedicated funding mechanism to guarantee financial autonomy for INEC and the timely release of election resources at least six months before voting.

It also mandates electronic transmission of results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal, requires the use of approved technologies for voter accreditation, and compels political parties to maintain digital membership registers to enhance internal governance.

Stricter penalties for electoral offences have been introduced, including custodial sentences and financial sanctions for malpractice, while campaign spending limits and inclusivity measures have been revised to broaden participation and accessibility.

Electoral stakeholders have framed the reforms as a modernisation of Nigeria’s democratic infrastructure aimed at deepening transparency and public confidence in elections.

Authorities say the new legal framework will guide preparations for the 2027 general elections and strengthen safeguards against electoral irregularities.