"The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to immediately withdraw a proposed bill that would penalize eligible Nigerians who fail to vote with a six-month jail term, a N100,000 fine, or both.
In a letter dated March 29, 2025, SERAP, through Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, condemned the bill as "oppressive" and a violation of constitutional and international human rights. They argued that criminalizing the choice not to vote is incompatible with fundamental rights.
The bill, aiming to make voting mandatory, was criticized by SERAP for infringing on the right to choose electoral participation. They emphasized that the right to vote inherently includes the right not to vote.
Instead of penalizing voter apathy, SERAP called on the National Assembly to prioritize electoral reforms, such as removing immunity for governors and their deputies who commit electoral offenses, reducing the influence of money in politics, and ensuring the independence of electoral commissioners.
SERAP also advocated for technological enhancements to voter registration and secure voting systems.
They warned that they would pursue legal action if the bill is passed and signed into law, aiming to prevent its implementation."