Ruth NWORIE
A coalition of civil society organisations, youth groups and concerned Nigerians on Monday gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, demanding the immediate passage of the Electoral Act amendment bill ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The protesters said the amendment, particularly the provision for mandatory electronic transmission of election results, was critical to strengthening transparency and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) were also present at the protest, alongside activists who called on the National Assembly to approve the bill without further delay.
Videos circulating on social media showed protesters chanting slogans while occupying the entrance to the National Assembly complex.
The demonstrators insisted that electronic transmission of results would curb electoral manipulation and ensure that votes cast by Nigerians are accurately reflected in election outcomes.
They maintained that failure to pass the amendment would undermine efforts to deepen democracy and promote credible elections in the country.
Speaking during the protest, Nigerian activist and electoral reform advocate, Peter Akah, urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio and members of the National Assembly to prioritise the passage of the bill.
“Akpabio, pass the bill.
No be Tinubu get Nigeria.
No be Wike get Nigeria.
Na all of us get Nigeria.
Our votes must count.
We are tired of selection.
Give us election.
Enough is enough.”
“Akpabio, you must pass the bill. You must come out and pass the electoral reforms because this Nigeria is our Nigeria. This National Assembly is our own. What do we want? Our votes must count. We are not here for a courtesy visit; we are here for a protest. This National Assembly gate is where we are going to stay. Mandatory real-time transmission of results is a must. We say no to legitimised rigging.”
