House of Representatives Passes Bill Allowing Independent Candidates in Elections

The House of Representatives has successfully passed the first reading of a bill aimed at amending the 1999 Constitution to permit independent candidates in all elections. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Akintude Rotimi, seeks to provide qualified individuals the opportunity to run for office without the backing of political parties.

This latest initiative follows a similar bill introduced during the 9th Assembly, which ultimately failed to gain the necessary approval from state Houses of Assembly as required by law.

During a press conference, Rotimi underscored the importance of allowing independent candidates to participate in elections, stating, “It is time for qualified individuals who lack political party sponsorship to have a fair chance at running for office.” He noted that while he himself was sponsored by the All Progressives Congress, many Nigerians do not have access to such opportunities. Rotimi pointed out that even in advanced democracies, independent candidacy is encouraged to promote inclusivity in the electoral process.

To qualify as an independent candidate, individuals must meet specific criteria, including obtaining endorsements from a requisite number of registered voters within their intended constituency. According to a copy of the bill reviewed by The Nation, candidates must gather endorsements from at least 10 percent of registered voters spread across two-thirds of their constituency.

These endorsements will be subject to verification by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or the State Independent Electoral Commission for local government elections. Importantly, the bill stipulates that no voter may sign on behalf of another.

The proposed amendment seeks to revise sections 7, 65, 106, and 221 of the Constitution, and aims to establish a dedicated desk within INEC to oversee the coordination of independent candidacy.