National Assembly proposes inmate voting rights in Nigeria as Electoral Bill 2025 outlines reforms to boost inclusion and election credibility
The National Assembly has proposed granting voting rights to inmates in Nigerian correctional facilities as part of the ongoing amendment of the country’s electoral law.
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The proposal was disclosed by the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, ahead of the resumption of plenary following the yuletide recess.
Senator Bamidele said the provision is contained in the Electoral Bill 2025, which is currently undergoing a clause by clause review by lawmakers.
According to him, the bill recognises the right of eligible prisoners to participate in elections and places a statutory obligation on the Independent National Electoral Commission to register inmates across correctional centres nationwide.
“Under Section 12 subsections one and two, the Bill recognises the voting rights of prisoners and the obligations of the Independent National Electoral Commission to register all eligible inmates in all correctional facilities nationwide,” Bamidele said.
The Senate Leader explained that the proposed reform aligns with public demands for a more inclusive and credible electoral system that protects the integrity of votes.
He added that the Electoral Bill 2025 introduces no fewer than 20 defining provisions aimed at strengthening electoral administration and accountability among political parties.
Bamidele also revealed that the bill seeks to address long standing funding challenges faced by the electoral umpire.
Under Section 3 subsection three of the proposed law, funds for general elections would be released at least one year before polling day, a move he described as crucial to reducing operational uncertainty.
“Obviously, this reduces uncertainty that often clogs the operation of the Independent National Electoral Commission and strengthens its independence,” he said.
The senator noted that the review of the Electoral Act 2022 is intended to improve election management, enhance public trust in the process and consolidate democratic gains.
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The proposed inmate voting rights in Nigeria mark a significant shift in electoral policy and are expected to spark debate as legislative consideration of the bill continues.
