Single day pools constitutional amendment sparks major debate in the assembly

[Mrbukunmi]

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Nigeria considers holding all elections (State Assembly, House of Reps, Senate, Governors, President) on a single day, instead of spread-out dates.

Proponents argue it keeps the electoral commission (INEC) active year-round, reduces system collapse risk, and cuts costs.

However, critics strongly disagree:
A former INEC director rejected it, remembering courts stopped a similar 2003 plan. He warned Nigeria lacks the logistics or voter literacy.
Lawyers are split:
One (SAN Ojo) saw cost savings but feared chaos, overwhelmed officials, and many court cases.
Another (SAN Balogun) doubted Nigeria’s capacity based on past problems.
A third (SAN Adedeji) agreed on cost reduction but questioned INEC’s ability.

Civil society leaders (Rafsanjani, Adeniran) supported the single-day plan. They believe it saves money, increases transparency, and only worries those wanting to rig elections. Adeniran stated nothing prevents single-day elections except manipulation concerns.

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