President Muhammadu Buhari has finally signed the Electoral Act Bill into law after weeks of controversy. The bill was signed into law at Aso Rock on Friday, February 25, 2022.
It was signed by President Buhari in the presence of the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
The bill was earlier rejected by President Muhammadu Buhari over the mandatory direct primaries clause in the law. The bill was revised and sent to the president for assent.
However, there are some important provisions in the new law. They include:
1. The early release of electoral funds for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Clause 3(3) of the law mandates the federal government to release electoral funds for INEC not less than a year before the general election to ensure financial independence.
2. Electronic Transmission of Results
Clause 50 of the law permits the INEC to determine if election results will be transmitted electronically or manually.
3. The power to review election results announced under duress
Clause 65 states that results announced under duress can only be challenged in court.
4. Early conduct of the primary election and submission of a candidate list
Clause 29(1) states that political parties must submit the names of candidates at least six months before the election date.
The law also removes the mandatory direct primary clause for political parties.
5. Political neutrality of INEC officials
Clause 8(5) states that INEC officials must not belong to or be affiliated with any political party.
