The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has disclosed that the National Assembly plans to complete work on the amendment of the Electoral Act 2022 by December 2025, well ahead of the 2027 general elections, to avoid delays that hindered past electoral reforms.

Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District, gave the assurance on Tuesday shortly after Senate President Godswill Akpabio read President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s letter seeking the confirmation of Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He said the legislature was determined to address all gaps identified in the 2022 Electoral Act to ensure that the next elections are conducted under a stronger, more transparent legal framework.

“The only reason former President Muhammadu Buhari couldn’t sign the final amendment to the Electoral Bill was because it came too close to the 2023 elections,” Bamidele said.

“This time, we’ll conclude the process on or before December 2025, so the amended law will be ready for the 2027 polls.”

The Senate Leader stressed that the current National Assembly had learned from past experiences and was taking proactive steps to avoid last-minute controversies.

On the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution, Bamidele, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, expressed optimism that the process would succeed this time, citing improved collaboration among the legislature, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures.

“All relevant institutions are working together. I don’t foresee any resistance from the Presidency or elsewhere. We’re focused on achieving a people-driven constitution that aligns with global best practices,” he said.

Bamidele also dismissed opposition criticism of the government’s performance, saying the ruling party remained focused on governance, stability, and economic recovery.

“No matter how well a government performs, the opposition will never agree it’s doing well. But our focus remains on rebuilding Nigeria and strengthening democracy. We won’t be distracted,” he stated.

As the 10th Senate enters its third legislative year, Bamidele noted that lawmakers would prioritise major reforms — including the Electoral Act amendment, constitutional review, and other legislative interventions — designed to deepen democratic institutions and ensure credible elections in 2027.

“This Senate has a full agenda — electoral reform, constitutional review, and governance restructuring. We’re committed to leaving behind a legacy of credible institutions and lasting democratic growth,” he said.