NASS Proposes Jail-Term for Non-Voters

NASS Proposes Jail-Term for Non-Voters

The Nigerian National Assembly is currently considering a controversial bill that would make voting compulsory for all eligible citizens and punish non-compliance with steep penalties.

The proposed legislation, titled "Bill for an Act to Amend the Electoral Act 2022 to Make It Mandatory for All Nigerians of Majority Age to Vote in All National and State Elections," suggests a six-month jail term, a fine of N100,000, or both for citizens who fail to vote during elections.

The bill has triggered intense backlash from civil society groups, particularly the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP). In a letter dated March 29, 2025, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, described the bill as unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental human rights.

"Jailing eligible Nigerians for deciding not to vote would be entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the letter and spirit of the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations," SERAP argued.