On Thursday, the House of Representatives passed for second reading a bill proposing a constitutional amendment to allow independent candidacy in Nigeria. The bill, titled “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB1630) (Independent Candidates),” was sponsored by Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., representing Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency.
Reintroduced after its first reading on September 26, 2024, this bill is seen as a legacy issue from previous assemblies. It seeks to expand political participation by enabling citizens to run for public office without being affiliated with any political party.
“This legislative action is pivotal for the continued evolution of our democracy,” Rep. Rotimi said, highlighting the importance of allowing independent candidates to foster inclusivity in the political landscape.
The bill’s passage is supported by the provisions of the House of Representatives Standing Orders, demonstrating the House’s commitment to a thorough legislative process. Following its second reading, the bill has been recommitted to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further evaluation.
Speaking to the media, Ms. Ibijoke Faborode, Founder of ElectHER, praised the bill’s advancement as a significant milestone in Nigerian democracy. She expressed excitement about the National Assembly’s unity in backing this progressive agenda and reaffirmed ElectHER’s partnership with Rep. Rotimi’s office to promote public advocacy for the bill’s final passage.
The Independent Candidacy Bill, if fully passed, is expected to significantly shape Nigeria’s political future by providing more diverse paths for political participation