Speaker Abbas Backs Down, Withdraws Controversial Compulsory Voting Bill After Public Outcry

• House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has withdrawn the controversial bill proposing compulsory voting for all eligible Nigerians.

• He said the decision followed wide consultations and acknowledged the need to respect citizens’ freedoms.

• Abbas now plans to promote voluntary voting through positive incentives and democratic reforms.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has officially withdrawn the contentious bill seeking to make voting compulsory in Nigeria, following widespread public backlash and consultations with key stakeholders.

The bill, which was co-sponsored by Hon. Daniel Adama Ago, sought to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to mandate electoral participation by all eligible Nigerians.

However, on Monday, Abbas announced its withdrawal through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi.

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“Following extensive consultations with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, he has decided to withdraw the Bill to Amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting mandatory for all eligible Nigerians,” the statement read.

Speaker Abbas emphasised that the bill was introduced with good intentions, aimed at “bolstering civic engagement and strengthening our democracy by encouraging higher voter turnout.”

Referencing global examples, the Speaker noted, “Compulsory voting has long been practised with notable success in countries such as Australia, Belgium and Brazil,” where voter participation often exceeds 90 percent.

He also cited Argentina and Singapore as countries with similar mandates that promote inclusivity.

Yet, in the Nigerian context, he conceded that legislative action must reflect both democratic ideals and public sentiment. “Lawmaking is ultimately about the people, and any reform must respect individual freedoms,” he said.

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Rather than pursue compulsion, Abbas pledged to focus on solutions that make voting attractive, accessible, and rewarding.

“He’s committed to exploring positive incentives and innovative approaches that will make voting more attractive and accessible to all Nigerians,” the statement affirmed.

He added, “This withdrawal will allow time for further dialogue on how best to cultivate a culture of voluntary participation that honours both our democratic ideals and the rights of our citizens.”