House of Reps Introduces Two-Year Jail Term, N10 Million Fine For Dual Party Membership
The House of Representatives has strengthened the Electoral Act 2026 by introducing strict penalties for individuals who hold membership in more than one political party at the same time. The amendment to Section 77 now prescribes a two-year jail term, a N10 million fine, or both for offenders. During a session of the committee of the whole chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, lawmakers debated and approved three new clauses—8, 9, and 10—aimed at curbing dual party membership. The new clauses make it clear that anyone found registered with multiple political parties will have all such memberships nullified. Clause 8 states that no person shall be registered as a member of more than one political party simultaneously. Clause 9 specifies that if dual membership is discovered, it will be voided, and the individual will not be recognized as a valid party member until proper regularisation under the law and party constitution. Clause 10 sets out the penalties, stating that anyone who knowingly maintains membership in more than one party commits an offence punishable by a N10 million fine, two years imprisonment, or both.