House of Reps members propose six-month jail term for citizens who refuse to vote

The House of Representatives is considering a bill that seeks to penalise eligible citizens who fail to vote during elections.

The penalty being proposed is six-month imprisonment or a fine of N100,000.

The sponsors of the bill are seeking to strengthen civic responsibility and boost voter turnout during elections.

Presenting the bill during Thursday’s plenary session, co-sponsor of the bill and member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, Daniel Asama, argued that compulsory voting would deepen democracy, strengthen civic engagement, and reduce voter apathy.

According to him, “democracy thrives when citizens are actively engaged in the process of selecting their leaders and shaping the direction of governance.”