Protesters Storm NASS Again Over Election Bill

A group of protesters on Tuesday gathered again at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, demanding the passage of a bill that seeks real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s IREV portal.

The demonstrators, who returned for the second straight day, assembled at the main entrance of the complex early in the day. They called on lawmakers to pass the electoral amendment without changes and to make the transmission of results compulsory in future elections.

The protest was mainly directed at the leadership of the Senate, particularly Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The crowd sang solidarity songs and repeated calls urging him and other lawmakers to approve the bill without delay. They insisted that votes cast during elections must be properly counted and reflected in the final outcome.

Many of the protesters carried placards with different messages demanding that the National Assembly avoid altering the proposed law. Some of the inscriptions warned against election manipulation, while others urged lawmakers to act in the interest of democracy.

The group said electronic transmission of results would reduce disputes and build trust in the electoral process. According to them, failure to pass the bill in its present form could weaken public confidence in future polls.

Security operatives were stationed around the complex to maintain order as the protest went on peacefully. Movement in and out of the National Assembly was monitored, but legislative activities were not disrupted.

The protest comes amid ongoing debates over amendments to the Electoral Act. Lawmakers are still considering various proposals, including provisions relating to the conduct of elections and the use of technology in transmitting results.

With the continued demonstrations, pressure is mounting on the National Assembly to conclude work on the bill and clarify its position on electronic transmission before the next general election cycle.