The House of Representatives has amended the Electoral Act 2026, which prescribes a fine of N10 million and a maximum jail term of 2 years for dual membership of political parties.
This new provision of the Electoral Act 2026 was passed on Wednesday during the lower legislative chamber's plenary session.
The provision reads, “A person shall not be registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time.
“Where it is established that a person is registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time, such dual membership shall be void, and the person shall cease to be recognized as a valid member of any political party pending regularization in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the constitution of the political party concerned.
“A person who knowingly registers or maintains membership in more than one political party at the same time commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of N10,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term of two years, or both.”
This provision generated debate among the lawmakers, with some arguing it could contravene section 40 of the constitution, which permits freedom of association.
More details later.