New Law: ₦10m Fine, Jail Term for Dual Party Membership

By Emmanuel Kwada

The House of Representatives has passed a significant amendment to the Electoral Act 2026, criminalizing dual membership in political parties in Nigeria.

The new provision, approved during Wednesday’s plenary session, makes it an offence for any individual to belong to more than one political party simultaneously.

Those found guilty face severe penalties: a fine of N10 million or a maximum prison term of two years, or both, upon conviction.

This move aims to strengthen political party discipline, prevent cross-carpeting or divided loyalties that could undermine party integrity and electoral processes, and promote clearer allegiance among politicians and members ahead of future elections, including the 2027 general polls.

The amendment addresses long-standing concerns about politicians holding memberships in multiple parties, a practice that has occasionally led to legal disputes, defections, and confusion in party primaries or candidate nominations.

The bill’s passage comes amid ongoing electoral reforms by the National Assembly to refine Nigeria’s electoral framework following previous amendments to the Electoral Act.

Details on the specific section amended or the full legislative process were not immediately available, as proceedings continue. The amendment now awaits concurrence from the Senate (if not already harmonized) and presidential assent to become law.

Political analysts view the stiffer sanctions as a deterrent against opportunistic political behavior, though implementation will depend on enforcement by relevant agencies like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the courts.

More details are expected as the legislative process unfolds.