REPS INCREASE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES ‘ CAMPAIGN SPENDING LIMIT FROM N5BN TO N10BN

The House also significantly increased spending limits for other elective offices. The ceiling for governorship candidates was raised from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion, while senatorial candidates can now spend up to ₦500 million, up from the previous ₦100 million.

For candidates seeking election into the House of Representatives, the campaign spending cap was reviewed upwards from ₦70 million to ₦250 million.

At the state level, the maximum amount for candidates contesting seats in state houses of assembly was increased from ₦30 million to ₦100 million.

The lawmakers also approved higher spending limits for local government elections. Under the amendment, candidates contesting for chairmanship positions will now be allowed to spend up to ₦100 million, compared to the previous ₦30 million ceiling. Similarly, the campaign spending limit for councillorship candidates was increased from ₦5 million to ₦10 million.

In addition to adjusting expenditure ceilings, the House approved an increase in the maximum amount an individual or organisation can donate to a candidate. The donation cap was raised tenfold, from ₦50 million to ₦500 million.

The amendments form part of ongoing legislative efforts to review the electoral framework ahead of the 2027 polls.

On Wednesday, the House had approved a separate proposal mandating the real-time transmission of election results, signaling a broader push for electoral reforms.

The changes suggested to the Electoral Act 2022 will only become official once the Senate agrees to them and the President gives their approval.

HOTJIST NEWS