The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has firmly denied accusations that the National Assembly is deliberately delaying amendments to the Electoral Act 2022, insisting that the legislature is actively advancing the process.
Speaking during a media chat in his country home in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State on Friday, Kalu directly addressed criticisms leveled by former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar. Atiku had accused the National Assembly via his X account the previous day of premeditated stalling, warning that such delays could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
“The National Assembly is not delaying amendment of the Electoral Act. It is not true that the Parliament is deliberately delaying them, especially from the House of Representatives,” Kalu stated categorically.
He emphasized progress made by the lower chamber, noting that the House has completed substantial work to address gaps in the existing law. “The House of Representatives has done a lot of jobs in filling any gap and is now awaiting the Senate for a concurrent legislative action,” he explained, expressing optimism that the Senate would soon finalize its contributions.
Kalu assured Nigerians that the bicameral legislature remains committed to strengthening the electoral framework ahead of future polls. The clarification comes amid growing public and political scrutiny over the pace of reforms needed to enhance transparency, reduce disputes, and build trust in Nigeria’s democratic process following contentious past elections.
The Deputy Speaker’s response highlights the ongoing coordination required between the House and Senate for concurrent passage of amendments—a standard legislative requirement that often contributes to perceived delays in bicameral systems. No specific new timelines were provided, but Kalu’s assurance aims to dispel notions of intentional obstruction and reaffirm the National Assembly’s role in electoral reform.
As preparations for 2027 intensify, stakeholders continue to monitor the amendment process closely, with calls for timely completion to allow sufficient implementation time before the next general elections.
