A dramatic walk-out by minority lawmakers and police tear-gassing of protesters marked a tumultuous day at the National Assembly yesterday, as the House of Representatives passed the Electoral Act Amendment Bill with contentious provisions.
The bill, which has sparked heated debates and street protests, includes Clause 60(3) allowing both electronic and manual transmission of election results, and Clause 84 dealing with the mode of nomination of candidates by political parties.
Minority lawmakers walked out in protest, arguing that the provisions would create room for manipulation and rigging. “Our position is that elections shall and should be transmitted electronically. We are against any clause that would give room for micro-manipulation, rigging, or leeway for any untoward act,” said Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda.
The decision sparked outrage among civil society organisations, organised labour, and pro-democracy activists, who accused the National Assembly of weakening electoral safeguards.
Outside the chamber, protesters demanded mandatory electronic transmission of results, with some trying to push towards the gate. Police responded with tear gas, and an elderly woman reportedly fainted.
Former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, described the police action as an attack on democracy. “This has translated to a declaration of war on Nigerians, a war against participatory democracy,” he said.
The Senate, meanwhile, reduced the notice period for elections from 360 days to 300 days, paving the way for adjustment of the 2027 general election timetable.
The amended bill is expected to be harmonised with the House of Representatives’ version before transmission for presidential assent. The controversy surrounding the bill highlights the challenges ahead of the 2027 general elections
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