The Nigerian Senate has presented a proposed re-amendment to the Electoral Act, introducing stricter provisions that criminalise dual party membership among political office holders and party members.
The amendment was announced during plenary at the National Assembly of Nigeria, where Senate President Godswill Akpabio read portions of the revised provisions before lawmakers.
According to the proposal, any individual who is a registered member of a political party will no longer be allowed to simultaneously belong to, or defect to, another political party without formally relinquishing membership of the original party.
Under the new provision, engaging in dual party membership would constitute a criminal offence punishable by up to two years imprisonment, a fine of ₦10 million, or both, if the amendment is fully adopted into law.
The Senate leadership said the proposed measure is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral framework, promoting political discipline within parties, and addressing the growing trend of defections among elected officials.
Akpabio noted that the amendment forms part of ongoing efforts by the legislature to improve the country’s electoral system, adding that more details and provisions of the revised Electoral Act will be unveiled as deliberations continue.
Political observers say the move comes amid increasing concerns over frequent defections among lawmakers and party members, a trend many analysts believe has weakened party structures and ideological consistency within Nigeria’s multi-party system.
The proposed amendment is expected to undergo further legislative processes before it can become law.
