As the deadline for submission of party membership registers to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) expired, attention shifts to potential penalties for politicians caught with dual party registrations. The amended Electoral Act criminalizes dual membership, but enforcement remains uncertain as the Senate has yet to pass the amendment.
Legal Framework on Dual Membership
The House of Representatives passed a bill in March 2026 imposing a N10 million fine or two years imprisonment for dual party membership. The bill, passed in a single session, amends Section 77 of the Electoral Act. It voids both registrations if dual membership is discovered, and the individual ceases to be a member of any party until they regularize their status. The law targets deliberate double registration, not administrative errors. INEC is expected to flag duplicates in party registers, but enforcement for the 2027 cycle may be difficult as the law is still awaiting Senate concurrence and presidential assent.
Senate's Position
The Senate has not deliberated on the amendment, awaiting formal transmission from the House. Senator Yemi Adaramodu stated that the upper chamber cannot comment until the bill reaches them, emphasizing the bicameral legislative process.
Politicians in Disarray
Some politicians have been accused of dual membership. Rep. Thomas Ereyitomi (Warri Federal Constituency) denied holding an NDC membership card, calling it a forgery by political detractors. He reaffirmed loyalty to the APC and said security agencies have been alerted.
In Rivers State, Minister Nyesom Wike is using a 'rainbow coalition' to challenge Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike directed his loyal PDP candidates to defect to the APC, with Kingsley Chinda cleared for the APC gubernatorial primary. Wike stated the coalition will assess realities before making decisions.
Muhammad Musa Bagana, former APM BoT chairman, denied factional claims, affirming unity under National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle. He dismissed reports of a legal battle, saying the party is united.
Call for Extension
The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) petitioned INEC for a 90-day extension of the election timetable, citing legal disputes and internal crises in parties like ADC, SDP, PDP, and LP. The Yoruba Ronu Leadership Forum echoed the call, alleging that the presidency, INEC, and courts are suppressing the opposition.
Peter Obi, who defected from ADC to NDC, cited orchestrated litigation and internal crises as reasons. He warned that democracy must not be weakened by targeting opposition parties.
In Katsina, Rep. Abubakar Yahaya Kusada expressed concern over high-profile defections from the APC, warning of negative impacts on the party's chances in the 2027 elections.
