SERAP Opposes Proposed Legislation to Penalize Non-Voters in Nigeria

 The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has strongly opposed a proposed bill in the National Assembly that seeks to impose penalties, including a six-month jail term or a ₦100,000 fine, on eligible voters who fail to participate in elections. 

SERAP has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to withdraw the bill, arguing that it infringes on citizens’ rights. ​

In a statement, SERAP emphasized that the proposed legislation violates fundamental human rights and the freedom of choice inherent in democratic societies. The organization urged lawmakers to focus on electoral reforms that encourage voluntary participation rather than coercion.​

SERAP also recommended amending the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act to remove constitutional immunity for state governors and their deputies who commit electoral offenses, including vote-buying, to facilitate the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. ​

The proposed bill has sparked widespread debate, with critics arguing that compulsory voting undermines democratic principles, while proponents believe it could enhance civic engagement and electoral participation.