Nigeria wants to make voting compulsory.
A new bill proposes fines—and up to six months in jail—for anyone who skips elections.
Why? Because voter turnout in 2023 hit a record low: just 26.7%, despite having the highest number of registered voters in Africa—93 million.
Only 25 million actually voted.
The bill has passed second reading in parliament, but still needs Senate approval and the president’s signature to become law.
The government says it’ll fight voter apathy. But critics say it misses the real issue.
Mistrust in the system, security fears, and a lack of confidence in the process are why many stay away.
Critics say forcing people to vote could lead to uninformed or coerced choices.
Last year South Africa recorded a 66% turnout. The African average? 60%.
So, should voting in Nigeria be a duty—or remain a choice?
Let us know your take.
Nigeria #Elections #VoterTurnout #Democracy #Politics
