Mandatory Voting: Speaker Bows to Pressure, Withdraws Controversial Bill

BY BONNY AMADI

The Speaker of Nigerian House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, on Monday announced the withdrawal of a bill introduced in parliament to make voting mandatory for adult Nigerians.

The Bill’s withdrawal marks the second time, in the history of this present administration, that the speaker has had cause to withdraw a bill he sponsored, following public outcry.

The bill’s withdrawal was announced in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, in Abuja on Monday.

The bill to amend the Electoral Act 2022 and make voting mandatory for all eligible Nigerians was first introduced in the House in February by the speaker and co-sponsored by Daniel Ago, who represents Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency.

Mr Tajudeen said the bill’s withdrawal was decided after extensive consultations with various stake holders.

“He has decided to withdraw the Bill to Amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting mandatory for all eligible Nigerians, which he co-sponsored with Rep. Ago.

“From the outset, the Bill was introduced with the best intentions, which is to bolster civic engagement and strengthen our democracy by encouraging higher voter turnout,” he said.

He said compulsory voting had long been practised with notable success in countries such as Australia, Belgium and Brazil.

According to him, it has helped sustain participation rates above 90 per cent, while nations like Argentina and Singapore have also implemented similar measures to foster inclusivity at the ballot box.

However, Mr Tajudeen acknowledged that law-making is ultimately about the people it serves and that any reform must respect individual freedoms and public sentiment.

“Rather than compel participation, he is committed to exploring positive incentives and innovative approaches that will make voting more attractive and accessible to all Nigerians.”

“This withdrawal would allow time for further dialogue on how best to cultivate a culture of voluntary participation that hon- ours both our democratic ideals and the rights of our citizens.”

Meanwhile, Messrs Tajudeen and Ago jointly introduced the bill to the House in February.

After deliberations, it scaled second reading earlier this month and was referred to the House Committee on Electoral Matters for further legislative action.

The bill provides, among other things, that eligible Nigerians who fail to vote during elections could face a penalty of up to six months in prison or a fine not exceeding N100,000.

During the debate, Mr Ago argued that mandatory voting would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by increasing civic participation, addressing voter apathy, and enhancing electoral legitimacy.

However, the bill has generated debate among Nigerians over its potential impact on democratic freedom and human rights.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) described it as draconian, unconstitutional, and a direct affront to civil liberties.

In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association said the bill violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution and undermines democratic principles.