Nigeria’s has approved a fresh amendment to the , proposing strict penalties for individuals who belong to more than one political party at the same time.
The amendment, which was passed during plenary in Abuja, introduces new provisions to Section 77 of the Electoral Act aimed at addressing the issue of dual political party membership ahead of the .
N10 Million Fine and Possible Jail Term
Under the proposed legislation, any individual found guilty of registering or maintaining membership in two political parties simultaneously will face a ₦10 million fine, a maximum two-year imprisonment, or both.
The bill also states that anyone found to have dual party membership will automatically lose recognition as a valid member of both parties until the situation is regularised in line with the provisions of the law and the constitution of the political party involved.
The amendment was sponsored by the House Leader, .
According to the proposal:
“A person shall not be registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time.”
It further adds that any individual who knowingly maintains membership in multiple parties commits an offence punishable by law.
Lawmakers Divided Over Proposal
The proposal sparked mixed reactions among lawmakers during deliberations.
Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, , supported the bill, arguing that it would prevent political manipulation and ensure transparency in party membership.
However, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education, , expressed concerns that the amendment could conflict with Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to freedom of association.
Fulata argued that preventing individuals from associating with multiple political parties might violate constitutional provisions.
Deputy Speaker Defends Amendment
Responding to the concerns, the Deputy Speaker of the House, , who presided over the plenary, maintained that individuals should align themselves with a political party that reflects their ideological beliefs rather than registering in multiple parties.
He described dual party membership as “fraudulent misrepresentation.”
The proposed amendment is expected to move to the next legislative stage as part of broader electoral reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.
