Electoral offences act: We must act fast to sustain democracy – Gbajabiamila

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said the house must act fast on the passage of the Electoral Offences Bill to effectively implement penalties against individuals, groups and institutions that violate electoral laws and pose threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

He made the remark in an opening address at the resumed plenary yesterday in Abuja.

He said, “The Electoral Offences Act is one area where we must take action before the culmination of the 9th House of Representatives. 

“The act is necessary to ensure effective enforcement against individuals and organisations whose violations of our electoral laws undermine our constitution and threaten our democracy.

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“A system of vigorous prosecution and punishment of electoral offenders will serve as a deterrent to others in the future and help build confidence in our elections.

“When we began the constitutional review process in the 9th House of Representatives, I said this was an opportunity to achieve a constitution that resolves many issues that fracture our nation and hinder our progress.

“As a necessary first step, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should collaborate with stakeholders to conduct a meticulous assessment of the election process. This is necessary to inform further reforms and improvements.”