The Nigerian Senate has assured the public that it is not opposed to peaceful protests or criticism regarding its handling of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The assurance comes as debates continue over the removal of the phrase “real-time” from provisions on electronic transmission of election results.
Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, stated that the Senate will reconvene for an emergency plenary to address the issue and approve votes and proceedings from last week’s controversial session. “We are in a democracy, and Nigerians have the right to express themselves peacefully,” he said.
The statement followed large-scale demonstrations at the National Assembly by the Obidient Movement, civil society groups, and youth organizations, demanding mandatory, real-time electronic transmission of election results. Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the protest, warning against the erosion of democratic gains and urging lawmakers to enact clear legal backing for credible elections.
Civil society organizations, including the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Movement for Credible Elections, and FixPolitics, also expressed concerns that the amendment could undermine the integrity of the 2027 general elections if key provisions, such as mandatory electronic transmission of results and downloadable voter cards, are not included.
Legal experts, including Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, stressed that the absence of statutory support for electronic result transmission exposes elections to disputes and prolonged litigation. Advocates warned that the controversy threatens public trust, with citizens demanding reforms that guarantee transparency, accountability, and credible outcomes in future polls.
The National Assembly has been urged to harmonize positions with the House of Representatives and ensure that the final version of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill strengthens the credibility of Nigeria’s elections ahead of 2027.
