Senate Sets Up Committee to Review Amendments to 2022 Electoral Act

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has announced the constitution of a special committee to collate the views of senators on proposed amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act.

Akpabio made the disclosure on Thursday after a closed-door session of the Senate, during which lawmakers deliberated on a report relating to the Electoral Act amendment bill currently before the National Assembly.

According to the Senate President, the committee was set up to harmonise opinions and technical inputs from senators to ensure a more comprehensive and legally sound amendment process.

Akpabio explained that Senator Niyi Adegbomire, chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, was appointed as chairman of the committee for what he described as “technical reasons.”

Adegbomire, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), represents Ondo Central Senatorial District in the Senate.

Other members of the Electoral Act Review committee include:

Adamu Aliero, senator representing Kebbi Central

Aminu Tambuwal, senator representing Sokoto South

Adams Oshiomhole, senator representing Edo North

Mohammed Goje, senator representing Gombe Central

Tony Nwoye, senator representing Anambra North

Titus Zam, senator representing Benue West

Akpabio further disclosed that the Clerk of the Senate will serve as the secretary of the committee.

Committee Given Three-Day Deadline

The Senate President stated that the committee has been given three days to conclude its assignment and submit a detailed report to the Senate. The report is expected to guide further legislative action ahead of the next plenary session scheduled for Tuesday.

He noted that the urgency reflects the Senate’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral framework and addressing gaps observed in previous elections.

The proposed amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act are aimed at improving the conduct of elections, enhancing transparency, and ensuring the credibility of the electoral process ahead of future polls.