The Senate on Wednesday deferred consideration of the report on the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2026, opting to subject the proposed amendments to further scrutiny before taking a final decision.

The decision followed deliberations on the report of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters during plenary, which was held in the absence of the committee’s chairman, Senator Simon Lalong.

Lawmakers resolved to step down debate on the report to allow senators more time to study the bill in detail, with consideration now scheduled to resume on Thursday.

In addition, the upper chamber agreed to reconvene in an executive session to enable closed-door discussions on sensitive aspects of the proposed electoral reforms, reflecting concerns over the far-reaching implications of the legislation.

Although the House of Representatives has already passed the bill, the Senate insisted on a more deliberate review process.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, underscored the need for caution, particularly as preparations for future elections intensify.

“This is a very important bill, especially as it is election time. We must take our time to ensure justice is done to all, so that we do not end up at the tribunal,” Akpabio said.

According to the report of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, a clause-by-clause analysis of the bill indicates that its enactment would leave Nigerians with a lasting legacy of electoral integrity, enhance transparency and boost public confidence in the electoral process.

The committee consequently recommended that the Senate consider and pass the Electoral Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2025, as amended, noting that the proposed reforms are designed to expand voter participation, safeguard against electoral malpractice and strengthen the institutional capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission.