The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has withdrawn a proposed amendment to the Electoral Act 2022 that sought to make voting compulsory for eligible Nigerians.
The bill, which had passed second reading, sparked significant public criticism due to its proposed penalties—a fine of ₦100,000 or up to six months imprisonment—for those who failed to vote. Many Nigerians, including opposition lawmakers, raised concerns over its constitutionality and feasibility.
In a statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Speaker Abbas cited the need for broader consultations as the reason for the withdrawal. He emphasized that the bill, co-sponsored with Hon. Daniel Asama Ago, was introduced with the intention of enhancing democratic participation.
“From the outset, the aim was to strengthen civic engagement and increase voter turnout, drawing on examples from countries like Australia, Belgium, and Brazil, where mandatory voting has resulted in participation rates exceeding 90 percent,” the statement noted.
However, Abbas acknowledged the importance of aligning legislative efforts with public opinion and respecting individual freedoms. He expressed a commitment to exploring alternative strategies that incentivize voter participation without compulsion.
“This decision opens the door for a more inclusive dialogue on how to foster a voluntary voting culture that reflects both our democratic values and citizens’ rights,” the statement concluded.