Protests Rock National Assembly As Lawmakers Reopen Electoral Act Debate
Fresh Protests as Lawmakers Reconvene
THE National Assembly resumed plenary amid heightened tension on Tuesday, as protesters gathered at the complex to demand stronger safeguards in the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Security operatives barricaded entrances to the complex as members of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), a coalition of civil society and labour leaders, staged a peaceful protest. The coalition is pushing for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units, arguing that anything less would undermine public trust.
Among prominent figures expected to address the rally were human rights lawyer Femi Falana, former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, labour leader Joe Ajaero, and activist Shehu Sani.
The protest coincided with a crucial sitting of both chambers of the National Assembly to reconcile differences over amendments to the Electoral Act.
Clash Over Electronic Transmission
At the heart of the dispute is Section 60(3) of the Electoral Act. The House of Representatives approved an amendment mandating real-time electronic transmission of results. However, the Senate inserted a proviso making such transmission subject to the availability of mobile network coverage.
Civil society groups have described the Senate’s conditional clause as a potential loophole that could reintroduce discretion at collation centres.
Former INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, warned that adding network-based conditions could invite manipulation. He noted that the Bi-Modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was designed to function both online and offline, automatically uploading results once connectivity is restored.
Ezekwesili insisted that mandatory transmission to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV) is non-negotiable if the 2027 elections are to be credible. “Democracy cannot thrive in opacity,” she said, urging lawmakers to prioritise national interest over partisan calculations.
However, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Niyi Akintola cautioned against yielding to public pressure, citing infrastructural weaknesses and past technical failures during elections.
Ramadan Controversy
Compounding the debate is controversy over the 2027 election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The commission scheduled presidential and National Assembly elections for 20 February 2027, with governorship polls on 6 March — dates that overlap with Ramadan.
Some Muslim groups have called for adjustments, arguing that fasting could affect voter participation. Others, including religious leaders from Christian and Muslim communities, contend that Nigeria’s secular framework requires neutral electoral scheduling.
INEC has defended its timetable as consistent with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act but said it is consulting stakeholders and may seek legislative clarification if necessary.
A Defining Moment
Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, described the session as critical, urging lawmakers to attend fully.
Observers say the outcome of the reconciliation process could significantly influence public confidence in the 2027 elections. Whether lawmakers adopt a firm mandate for electronic transmission or retain conditional language may determine how Nigerians assess the credibility of the next polls.
As debates continue inside the chambers and protesters maintain their vigil outside, the legislature faces a pivotal test of its commitment to electoral reform.
