JUST IN: NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO DELIVER ACCEPTABLE ELECTORAL REFORM BILL SOON — SPOKESMAN
N’ASSEMBLY TO DELIVER ACCEPTABLE ELECTORAL REFORM BILL SOON — HOUSE SPOKESMAN
The National Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering an acceptable and comprehensive Electoral Reform Bill aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic system and restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
The Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Mr Akintunde Rotimi, made this known on Saturday while inaugurating three constituency projects in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
Rotimi, who represents Ekiti North Federal Constituency I, said lawmakers were currently harmonising inputs from various stakeholders to ensure the passage of an effective and credible electoral reform framework.
The projects commissioned include two roads at Isaba and Oke-Ayedun, as well as a staff quarters at Odo-Oro High School, Odo-Oro Ekiti.
Speaking at the event, the lawmaker explained that the projects were executed based on the identified needs of his constituents, stressing that members of the House of Representatives adopt a participatory approach when implementing constituency projects.
“These projects were executed based on the expressed needs of my constituents. Members of the House of Representatives are deliberate about constituency projects by giving constituents the opportunity to articulate their priorities,” Rotimi said.
Addressing concerns over the delay in passing the Electoral Reform Bill, Rotimi assured Nigerians that electoral reforms remain a top legislative priority, adding that the process would be concluded soon.
According to him, the proposed reforms are designed to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections, ensure that votes truly count, and address challenges observed during the 2023 general elections.
“The Electoral Reform Bill before the National Assembly is targeted at improving the transparency, credibility, and efficiency of our democratic system, while also addressing the shortcomings exposed during the 2023 general elections,” he stated.
Rotimi disclosed that the reform process has involved extensive consultations, including engagements with community leaders, civil society organisations, and other interest groups.
He explained that while the House of Representatives passed the bill before proceeding on recess in December, the Senate has commenced its legislative work, with both chambers currently harmonising outstanding areas.
“At this stage, we are harmonising a few areas, and the process will be concluded very soon,” he said.
The House spokesman emphasised that credible elections are fundamental to democracy, noting that citizens must be able to freely choose their representatives at all levels of government.
Highlighting his legislative record, Rotimi said he has sponsored over 40 bills, including proposals on independent candidacy, sexual harassment prevention in educational institutions, and whistle-blower protection.
He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that sustained public backing would enable the government to deliver on its policy objectives.
Meanwhile, concerns over the timing of the bill have also been raised by opposition parties. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently urged the National Assembly to urgently pass the Electoral Bill 2025, warning that further delays could undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections.

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