A political storm is brewing over a proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution to conduct all elections in Nigeria on the same day in 2027. Leading opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), have expressed their support for the initiative, while the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected it, warning of potential consequences.
The proposal, led by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, aims to allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to hold presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly elections simultaneously. Proponents argue this would reduce costs and avoid post-election bandwagon effects.
NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, stated that same-day polls would be efficient and cost-effective. He emphasized that pooling resources for simultaneous elections would help ensure proper management at polling units. The Labour Party echoed this sentiment, suggesting it would eliminate staggered elections that often lead to fluctuating voter turnout. PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, welcomed the change but cautioned against potential manipulation. He pointed out the excessive costs associated with elections in Nigeria. ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, supported the proposal but stressed the need for improved logistics from INEC.
The APC formally opposed the proposal, arguing that staggered elections keep INEC active and prevent system overload during elections. Deputy National Organising Secretary Nze Chidi Duru warned that same-day elections would place undue pressure on electoral management.
Lawmakers are divided, with some, like Sada Soli from the North-West caucus, supporting the bill as timely. Others, like Osun lawmaker Oluwole Oke, believe INEC should retain the discretion to set election dates. Legal experts have also weighed in, with some supporting the idea as a cost-saving measure, while others express skepticism about Nigeria’s capacity to handle such a significant logistical challenge.
Civil society leaders have endorsed the proposal, arguing it would increase transparency and reduce costs. However, they also highlighted the need to ensure that the political environment is free from manipulation. The debate continues as stakeholders assess the potential impacts of this significant electoral reform.
