https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEuI3k9RhO0

 Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday joined protesters at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, demanding the mandatory inclusion of real-time electronic transmission of election results in the proposed Electoral Act amendment.

Amaechi was seen alongside demonstrators as they pressed lawmakers to explicitly include the provision in the bill, arguing that it is critical to safeguarding electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The protest is part of a growing pushback against aspects of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, particularly concerns over whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be compelled to transmit election results electronically and in real time from polling units.

On Monday, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also joined the protesters, amplifying calls for transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

The demonstration attracted widespread attention after protesters were seen carrying mattresses and pillows to the National Assembly, a symbolic gesture many interpreted as a sign of their resolve to remain until their demands are met.

The protesters, drawn from civil society organisations, youth groups and concerned citizens, insist that the bill must clearly state “real-time electronic transmission” to eliminate any ambiguity that could be exploited to undermine election outcomes.

While a significant number of Nigerians support making electronic transmission compulsory, some lawmakers have expressed reservations, citing logistical and infrastructural challenges. The Senate has repeatedly denied claims that it rejected the clause, issuing clarifications to counter what it described as misinformation.

Despite these assurances, protesters have remained firm, arguing that only clear and mandatory language in the law can prevent manipulation and ensure that INEC does not have discretionary powers over the transmission of election results.