Falana criticises senate for stalling electoral reforms
Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, has openly criticised the Nigerian Senate for repeatedly delaying the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. He warned that these postponements could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections. Falana expressed frustration over the Senate’s decision to form another committee to review a bill already passed by the House of Representatives. He argued that the delays serve to maintain the status quo rather than address needed electoral reforms.
What we know
- Femi Falana said the Senate’s repeated postponements of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill threaten the credibility of the 2027 elections.
- He criticised the Senate for creating another review committee after the House of Representatives had already passed the bill in December 2025.
- Falana argued that the amendments are being unnecessarily delayed to avoid meaningful reforms, including electronic transmission of results and stiffer penalties for vote-buying.
- He noted that key reforms, such as establishing an electoral offences commission recommended in 2008, remain unimplemented.
- Falana urged Nigerians and civil society to pressure lawmakers, warning that the new electoral bill will not pass without public mobilisation.
