YERP urges National Assembly to fast-track electoral reforms

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Youth-led Electoral Reform Project, YERP_Naija, has called on the National Assembly to renew its commitment to electoral reforms as Nigerians enter the New Year.

The group made the call in a statement signed on Friday by its National Coordinator and Executive Director of Kimpact Development Initiative, Bukola Idowu.

YERP_Naija congratulated Nigerians, particularly young people, and extended goodwill to members of the National Assembly, noting the importance of the period for Nigeria’s democratic development.

It said progress on electoral reform remained uneven as of December 26, 2025.

According to the statement, the House of Representatives has completed clause-by-clause consideration and voting on proposed amendments to the Electoral Act.

YERP_Naija described the development as a “significant milestone” that provides a strong foundation for reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, the group said the Senate did not begin voting on the electoral reform amendment bills before proceeding on its end-of-year recess.

It noted that the Senate is expected to resume plenary between the second and third week of January 2026, when consideration of the bills is anticipated to begin.

“The pause introduces uncertainty into the reform timeline and highlights the importance of maintaining a sustained legislative focus in the weeks ahead,” the statement read.

YERP_Naija said several provisions considered by the House reflected long-standing demands by young Nigerians across the six geopolitical zones.

It added that the proposals address calls for transparency, accountability and fairness in the electoral process.

The group urged senators to prioritise clause-by-clause consideration and voting on the bills upon resumption.

Beyond the Electoral Act, YERP_Naija also called for timely consideration of constitutional amendment proposals affecting electoral integrity and inclusion.

It warned that delays could affect implementation, especially with the statutory timeline for issuing notices of election approaching.

“Experience has shown that amendments concluded too close to election periods risk being excluded from implementation,” it said.

YERP_Naija also appealed to civil society organisations, the media, youth groups and community leaders to sustain public engagement on the reforms.

The coalition, supported by the National Democratic Institute, said it remained committed to promoting a credible, inclusive and accountable electoral system in Nigeria.