The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to producing a credible and far-reaching Electoral Reform Bill designed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system and improve the integrity of future elections.
House Spokesman, Akintunde Rotimi, gave the assurance while addressing stakeholders, urging Nigerians to remain confident in the ongoing legislative process. He emphasized that the final version of the reform bill would address shortcomings observed in past elections and meet public expectations.
According to Rotimi, the proposed legislation is intended to boost transparency, efficiency, and trust in the country’s electoral framework, particularly by correcting gaps that became evident during the 2023 general elections.
He explained that work on the bill is progressing, with both chambers of the National Assembly currently reconciling their separate versions after the House passed its draft in December.
The lawmaker noted that the reform initiative has followed an inclusive approach, incorporating contributions from a wide range of stakeholders across the country.
He stated that joint committees from the Senate and House responsible for electoral reforms have held multiple meetings, retreats, and consultations involving civil society organisations, community representatives, and other interest groups.
Rotimi stressed that credible elections remain the bedrock of democratic governance, adding that citizens must be able to cast their votes freely without fear or intimidation and trust that their votes will count.
The spokesperson made these remarks during the inauguration of constituency projects in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, where he represents Ekiti North Federal Constituency I.
The commissioned projects included the construction of two roads located in Isaba and Oke-Ayedun, alongside newly built staff quarters at Odo-Oro High School in Odo-Oro Ekiti.
He explained that the initiatives were carried out based on priorities identified by residents, noting that lawmakers intentionally consult constituents to ensure projects reflect the true needs of the communities.
According to him, community participation remains a key factor in determining which constituency projects are executed.
Highlighting his legislative efforts, Rotimi disclosed that he has sponsored more than 40 bills since becoming a member of the House of Representatives.
Among the proposals he mentioned were bills addressing sexual harassment in educational institutions, independent candidacy, and protections for whistle-blowers.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Senate to accelerate the passage of the Electoral Bill 2025, warning that extended delays could affect preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the APC-led Senate was deliberately slowing the process.
The ADC cautioned that any further postponement could weaken public trust in the electoral system and threaten the credibility of the next general elections.
Despite these concerns, Rotimi reiterated that the harmonised version of the bill would soon be finalised and passed, maintaining that the National Assembly remains determined to deliver reforms that will strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
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