LunagisthubNational Assembly to Harmonise Electoral Bill
The Joint National Assembly Conference Committee is set to meet on Monday to harmonise the Electoral Amendment Bill, which was passed separately by the Senate and the House of Representatives. The committee has a one-week window to resolve contentious provisions, particularly those related to electronic transmission of election results.
The bill’s harmonisation follows the passage of different versions by the Senate and the House, with disagreements on technology’s role in result collation and transmission. This process is crucial, given the controversies surrounding the 2023 general election, including the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) failure to upload presidential election results to its Result Viewing Portal in real-time.
The committee will focus on resolving differences between the two chambers, especially regarding electronic transmission of results. This issue has sparked intense debate, with some lawmakers arguing it could enhance transparency and others expressing concerns about its feasibility.
The harmonised bill will be transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent. The outcome will significantly impact Nigeria’s electoral process, particularly with the 2027 general elections approaching.
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