The House of Representatives of Nigeria has approved an amendment to the Electoral Act 2026 aimed at criminalising membership in more than one political party at the same time.
Under the revised provision, anyone found to be simultaneously registered with multiple political parties could face a fine of N10 million, a maximum prison sentence of two years, or both upon conviction.
The lower chamber passed the amendment during Wednesday’s plenary session as part of efforts to tighten regulations guiding political party membership in the country.
The amendment introduces three additional subsections to Section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026, which addresses issues relating to party affiliation.
According to the new provision, any individual discovered to be listed as a member of more than one political party concurrently will have such membership invalidated.
“A person shall not be registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time,” the provision reads.
It further states that individuals found to be holding dual membership will lose recognition as valid members of any political party until they regularise their status in line with the law and the constitution of the political party involved.
“Where it is established that a person is registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time, such dual membership shall be void, and the person shall cease to be recognised as a valid member of any political party pending regularisation in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the constitution of the political party concerned.”
The amendment also prescribes criminal penalties for offenders.
“A person who knowingly registers or maintains membership in more than one political party at the same time commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of N10,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term of two years, or both.”
If the amendment eventually receives presidential assent, it is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s legal framework governing political party affiliation and address concerns about individuals maintaining multiple party memberships.
