Senate postponed debate on a key electoral reform bill Wednesday, shifting to closed-door deliberations to allow deeper examination amid mounting preparations for upcoming polls, lawmakers said, as the upper chamber seeks to avoid potential legal pitfalls.
The move halts consideration of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2026 until Thursday, following discussions on the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters’ report in the absence of chairman Simon Lalong.
Senators opted for an executive session to hash out sensitive elements privately, underscoring the legislation’s weighty implications, while the House of Representatives has already approved the measure.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized prudence, warning against hasty action that could lead to disputes.
“This is a very important bill, especially as it is election time. We must take our time to ensure justice is done to all, so that we do not end up at the tribunal,” Akpabio said
The committee’s analysis praises the bill for promising enduring electoral integrity, greater transparency, and heightened trust in the system, urging its passage to broaden voter engagement, curb fraud, and empower the Independent National Electoral Commission.
