House of Reps Proposes ₦10m Fine, Two-Year Jail Term for Politicians With Dual Party Membership

House of Reps Proposes ₦10 Million Fine, Two-Year Jail Term for Politicians With Dual Party Membership 

Nigeria’s lawmakers are moving to tighten the country’s electoral laws as the House of Representatives Nigerian has proposed strict penalties for politicians who belong to more than one political party at the same time. Under a new amendment to the Electoral Act (Nigeria), lawmakers are proposing that any politician found guilty of dual party membership could face a ₦10 million fine, a two-year jail term, or both.

The move is part of a broader effort to restore discipline in Nigeria’s political system and strengthen the credibility of elections.




According to the proposal debated during plenary, any individual who registers or maintains membership in two political parties simultaneously would be committing an electoral offence. If the amendment eventually becomes law, offenders may face; a fine of up to ₦10 million, imprisonment for up to two years,  or both penalties. 

The amendment also aims to ensure that political party membership records are properly monitored and verified.



Dual party membership has long been a controversial issue in Nigeria’s political landscape. Some politicians have been accused of secretly maintaining ties with multiple parties, allowing them to manipulate internal party processes or switch loyalties when politically convenient. Critics argue that this practice undermines party discipline, political accountability, and voter trust. By criminalising the practice, lawmakers hope to create clearer political loyalties and reduce political opportunism.


Beyond punishing political misconduct, the proposed amendment is also aimed at improving free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria. When politicians operate across multiple parties, it can lead to, manipulation of party primaries, confusion in candidate selection, and unfair advantages during elections. 

A stricter law could help ensure that elections are conducted with greater transparency and integrity.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would also have clearer legal backing to monitor party memberships and enforce electoral regulations. Many observers believe that stronger laws are necessary to restore public confidence in the electoral process.



Despite the announcement, the amendment is not yet law. For it to become legally binding in Nigeria, it must still pass through several stages: Approval by the Nigerian Senate. Harmonisation of both chambers’ versions of the bill. And presidential assent from Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Only after these steps will the proposed penalties become enforceable. 



           You can also read: 

https://everydaystorynetwork.blogspot.com/2026/03/natasha-akpoti-excluded-from-nigerias.html 

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                EverydayStoryNetwork Perspective


If properly implemented, this amendment could help address one of the most persistent problems in Nigerian politics, political inconsistency and opportunism. However, laws alone cannot guarantee credible elections. For Nigeria to achieve truly free and fair elections, authorities must also ensure; transparent vote counting, protection of voters and electoral officials, and strict punishment for vote buying and electoral violence. 

The credibility of elections ultimately determines the strength of a democracy.



                 Let’s Hear From You

The proposed amendment has sparked debate among Nigerians. Some believe it will strengthen political discipline, while others think politicians will still find ways around the law.

Do you think a ₦10 million fine and jail term will stop politicians from belonging to multiple parties?

What other reforms are needed to ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria?

Share your thoughts in the comments.

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