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Reps propose 2-year jail term for Nigerians with dual party membership.
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Electoral Act amendment triggers debate over constitutionality and rights.
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Opposition, analysts kick as bill raises fears ahead of 2027 elections.
A proposed amendment to Nigeria’s Electoral Act prescribing a fine of ₦10 million or two years imprisonment for dual party membership has sparked widespread controversy across political circles.
The amendment, introduced by the House of Representatives, seeks to prohibit individuals from belonging to more than one political party at the same time, with penalties including loss of membership and possible prosecution.
Sponsored by House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, the bill proposes changes to Section 77 of the Electoral Act, strengthening rules around party affiliation ahead of the 2027 elections.
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The proposal has sharply divided lawmakers. While some members backed the move as necessary to curb political manipulation, others warned it could violate constitutional rights.
Chairman of the House Committee on University Education, Abubakar Fulata, argued that the amendment conflicts with Section 40 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association.
“This proposed amendment seems to be in contravention of Section 40… which guarantees the freedom of association,” he said.
Presiding over plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu defended the bill, describing dual party membership as “fraudulent misrepresentation” and urging politicians to align with a single ideology.
Outside the National Assembly, opposition voices have strongly criticised the proposal.
Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party described the move as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic freedoms.
“It is unconstitutional to punish a person for joining political parties,” he said, adding that the law only restricts sponsorship during elections, not membership.
Political analysts have also raised concerns that the bill could be aimed at preventing defections within the ruling All Progressives Congress amid growing economic and security challenges.
The amendment has intensified debate over electoral fairness and political rights, with many warning it could shape the credibility of the 2027 general elections.