Two opposition lawmakers raised objections on Thursday to a proposed amendment to the Electoral Act, 2022, which seeks to make voting compulsory for all eligible Nigerians in national and state elections.
The bill, co-sponsored by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Daniel Asama (Plateau), passed its second reading during a plenary session.
Introducing the bill, Asama explained that the legislation aims to strengthen democratic participation by requiring all Nigerians of voting age to cast their ballots.
“Voting is not just a right, but a civic responsibility,” Asama said. “In many democracies around the world, this responsibility is taken seriously and enforced.”
The proposed amendment would:
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Introduce compulsory voting for all citizens aged 18 and above;
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Establish legal provisions for enforcing mandatory voting, including penalties for unjustified non-compliance and valid exemptions such as illness, religious objections, or residency abroad;
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Empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to monitor compliance and handle exemption requests without infringing on citizens’ rights;
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Promote voter education and awareness to increase participation.
Asama highlighted the low voter turnout in the 2023 general elections—less than 30% of registered voters participated—as a serious threat to democratic legitimacy.
“This declining participation weakens the credibility of elected governments and democratic institutions,” he warned.
He argued that compulsory voting would encourage civic responsibility and reduce electoral malpractice. “Mandatory voting could dilute the impact of vote-buying and foster a culture of accountability, as seen in countries like Australia, Belgium, and Brazil,” he said.
Asama also raised concerns about INEC’s dual role in both regulating political parties and organizing elections. “This structural overlap raises questions about the body’s neutrality and effectiveness,” he noted.
Opposition Pushback
However, lawmakers from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), including Mark Esset (Akwa Ibom) and Awaji-Inombek Abiante (Rivers), voiced skepticism about the bill’s practicality.
Esset said, “We’re trying to build something on a shaky foundation. Before making voting compulsory, we must restore citizens’ confidence in the electoral system. People must believe their votes truly count.”
Abiante echoed similar concerns: “Yes, citizens should take part in choosing their leaders, but we must consider key issues. What incentives exist to encourage voter turnout? Can we guarantee security? And do we even have a credible voter register? In some cases, names like Mike Tyson still appear on the list.”
He also raised logistical concerns about Nigerians living abroad. “How do we compel citizens living in Ghana, the U.S., or elsewhere to return and vote?”
Support from Other Members
Despite the pushback, the bill received support from Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Tijani Ghali (NNPP, Kano), and Amadi Akarachi (APC, Imo), who stressed the need for reforms to enhance civic engagement.
The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Electoral Matters for further consideration.