Electoral Act Amendment Bill Fulfillment Of Our Key Promise To Nigerians — Reps Spokesperson

The House of Representatives has congratulated Nigerians on the signing of the Electoral (Amendment) Bill into law by President Muhammadu Buhari, saying it is a fulfillment of a key promise made to the people by the 9th House of Representatives of delivering an amended electoral law worthy of blossoming the country’s democracy.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday signed into law the Bill which many Nigerians believe would strengthen the country’s electoral system and bring confidence in the sanctity of the ballot.

Civil society organisations and activists had earlier in the week staged a peaceful protest in Abuja, urging the President to sign the amended electoral bill into law.

In a statement on Friday made available to ABN TV, spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu noted that the Act is a product of extensive work by stakeholders and the leadership of the National Assembly.

While congratulating President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the re-worked Electoral Act Amendment Bill, the House expressed confidence that it will substantially improve the electoral system in Nigeria.

He said, “The House of Representatives recognizes that this Act is the product of extensive work and collaboration by all Nigerians, stakeholders, civil society and the National Assembly under the leadership of the Senate President, Sen. Ahmed Lawan, and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. We congratulate everyone who has played a role in this process to enhance our democracy through electoral reforms.

“The House also congratulates Mr. President for upholding this legacy for Nigerians by signing the historic bill after several years of hard work. We are confident that this bill which has become law will substantially improve the integrity of Nigerian elections.

“The ball is now in the court of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to commence preparations for the next elections. The House remains confident in the ability of INEC to deliver credible elections as they faithfully implement this law. We urge Nigerians to take advantage of this by registering and showing up to vote in the coming elections.

“This is indeed a proud moment for the 9th House of Representatives and we remain committed to strengthening our democracy even as we conclude our work on the Constitutional Review to diligently deliver an improved Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”