The House of Representatives has sparked controversy with a proposed amendment to the 2026 Electoral Act that seeks to impose a N10 million fine or two years imprisonment on anyone found to be a member of more than one political party.
The proposal, which adds three new clauses to Section 77 of the Electoral Act, aims to prohibit dual party membership and mandates the loss of membership in all parties for offenders. Sponsored by the House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, the legislation stipulates that “a person who knowingly registers or maintains membership in more than one political party at the same time commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of N10 million or imprisonment for a term of two years or both.”
The amendment has ignited sharp divisions among lawmakers. Jonathan Gaza expressed support, calling dual membership “mischievous.” Conversely, Abubakar Fulata argued that the proposal conflicts with Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, presiding over the plenary, described dual party membership as “fraudulent misrepresentation” and urged individuals to align with a party that matches their ideology.
The proposed amendment has also drawn criticism from opposition parties and political commentators. Prince Adewole Adebayo, leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), described the measure as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic freedoms, asserting that membership in multiple political associations is permissible under existing law, even if only one party can sponsor a candidate during elections.
Political analysts, including Maarcellus Onah, argue that the amendment is designed to prevent defections within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) amid growing dissatisfaction over economic hardship and security challenges. Onah further criticised the National Assembly for failing to hold the executive accountable and urged voters to remove lawmakers who act against democratic principles.
The controversy has raised questions about whether the proposed legislation undermines the level playing field necessary for free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, with opposition figures accusing the ruling party of using the law to consolidate political dominance rather than reflect the will of the people.
