By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has assured Nigerians that the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act 2022 will be completed on or before December 2025, ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move underscores the National Assembly’s commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process.
Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, explained that the last amendment could not be finalized under former President Muhammadu Buhari because the bill was transmitted late to the Presidency. “The National Assembly had made corrections, especially regarding the disenfranchisement of statutory delegates, but the timing prevented completion,” he said.
The statement followed the reading of President Bola Tinubu’s request by Senate President Godswill Akpabio for the confirmation of Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN) as the new INEC Chairman, succeeding Professor Mahmood Yakubu. Professor Amupitan’s appointment was unanimously approved by the Council of State last week.
Bamidele also highlighted that the 1999 Constitution review is progressing steadily, with active input from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures. He expressed confidence that collaboration between public institutions and the National Assembly will ensure successful reforms guided by global best practices.
Addressing opposition criticisms, Bamidele noted that detractors often focus on discrediting the government. “Our focus remains on rebuilding Nigeria, stabilizing the polity, and growing the economy. We will not be distracted from these goals,” he said.
He further emphasized that electoral and constitutional reforms are top priorities for the 10th Senate in its third legislative year. According to Bamidele, completing the Electoral Act amendment before the 2027 polls will guarantee a fair, inclusive, and transparent voting process for all Nigerians.
