Reps amend electoral act 2026, impose N10m fine for dual party membership

The House of Representatives has amended the Electoral Act 2026 to criminalise dual membership of political parties in Nigeria.

Under the new provision, any individual found guilty of belonging to more than one political party at the same time will face a fine of N10 million.

The green chamber passed the amendment during plenary on Wednesday as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s electoral framework and promote transparency within the political system.

In addition to the financial penalty, the House also approved a maximum prison sentence of two years for offenders convicted under the new provision.

The amendment is aimed at discouraging political actors from maintaining allegiance to multiple parties simultaneously, a practice lawmakers say undermines party discipline and the integrity of the electoral process.