A landmark bill aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill proposes the creation of an Independent Authority tasked with overseeing the registration, regulation, and funding of political parties, a role currently held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Spearheaded by House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and lawmaker Marcus Onobun, the bill seeks to introduce a more robust, transparent, and independent framework for political party operations.
Key provisions include the establishment of a dispute tribunal to address party-related conflicts and comprehensive regulations on political party financing, ensuring funds are used appropriately and transparently.
The legislation comes amid growing concerns over the neutrality and independence of INEC, with critics, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega, warning of undue political influence in the commission’s activities.
Jonathan, speaking at a recent Yiaga event, emphasized the need for INEC to be free from political interference, stating that “political leaders who pressure INEC staff to act improperly should resign.” Jega echoed these sentiments, pointing to political interference in the appointment and removal of key electoral officials as a significant issue undermining INEC’s credibility.
Currently, Nigeria has 19 registered political parties, all governed under INEC’s purview. However, the bill advocates for the shift of responsibilities to a newly established independent authority that would ensure fairness, transparency, and a more effective regulatory framework for political party operations.
Bishop Isaac Idahosa, the 2023 Vice Presidential candidate for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), also voiced concerns over the lack of checks and balances on INEC’s authority, further strengthening the call for structural reforms.
The bill comes at a time when calls for a more efficient electoral system are intensifying. INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu has been vocal about the need for an Electoral Offences Tribunal, urging that electoral offences be handled swiftly and within specific timeframes, rather than being bogged down in lengthy court procedures.
Yakubu highlighted that many electoral offences carry over from one general election to another, delaying justice and potentially undermining public trust in the electoral process.
If passed into law, the bill promises to revamp Nigeria’s political system, ensuring greater transparency, fairness, and accountability in political party management and funding.
The creation of this new body is seen as a critical step towards strengthening democracy and restoring public confidence in the nation’s political processes.
