A bill seeking to empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct all general elections on the same day has passed its second reading in the Senate.

The proposed amendment to the Electoral Act 2022 aims to cut election costs, shorten campaign periods, and streamline the voting process. It also seeks to allow elected officials to serve as ad hoc delegates in party congresses.

Leading the debate on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Senator Saliu Mustapha highlighted the rising financial burden of elections, which has skyrocketed from ₦1.5 billion in 1999 to ₦350 billion in 2023.

“The current staggered election system is too costly and inefficient. Holding all elections on the same day will reduce expenses, boost voter turnout, and minimise political tension,” he argued.

The proposal received significant support from several lawmakers. However, concerns were raised about INEC’s capacity to manage nationwide elections in a single day.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole urged caution, stating: “While the bill has good intentions, we must ask: Is INEC equipped to conduct all elections in one day? We must also consider the potential confusion multiple ballot papers could create, especially for less literate voters.”

The Senate is expected to subject the bill to further scrutiny in the coming weeks.