A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 cap C23 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, to Establish and Empower the Electoral Offences Commission to Provide for the Investigation, Prosecution, and Adjudication of Electoral Offences; and for Related Matters

Abstract

This Bill seeks to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 to establish the Electoral Offences Commission (EOC) and empower it to investigate, prosecute and adjudicate offences relating to the electoral process in Nigeria. Presently, electoral offences are handled by regular courts and law enforcement agencies alongside their normal duties. However, experience has shown that electoral matters often suffer delays or lack adequate focus within the country's overburdened criminal justice system. This inhibits the effective and timely prosecution of electoral crimes which undermine our democracy. Therefore, establishing a specialized EOC dedicated solely to electoral offences will help prioritize related matters. It will investigate all pre-election, election-day and post-election crimes in an impartial manner. The Commission will also be empowered to prosecute offenders before its tribunal and enforce judgements/orders rendered on concluded electoral cases. This dedicated approach will promote due process and ensure justice is served for the sake of protecting our democratic values and citizens' voting rights. It will further boost confidence in the integrity of election processes and outcomes which are essential for political stability. In summary, the EOC is proposed to assume authority for electoral offences currently hampered within the general justice sector. This will optimize enforcement of our election laws and consolidate the nation's democratic governance regime.