A new proposal in the Nigerian Senate could shift the legal responsibility of proving an election’s validity from the candidates who complain to the electoral body, INEC. Lawmakers debated the change as part of a bill to replace the 2022 Electoral Act.
Currently, candidates who challenge election results in court must provide evidence of irregularities. The new bill would require INEC to prove that its conducted polls were free and fair. Supporters, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, argue this will make INEC more accountable.
However, the plan is divisive. Opposition parties like the PDP and Labour Party warn that INEC cannot yet be trusted with this responsibility, citing past controversies. Others support the move, saying it is a necessary step for credible elections.
The Senate aims to pass the new Electoral Act by December 2025.
