Iyunade Grace
The Nigerian House of Representatives was thrown into chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers staged a dramatic walkout from plenary, protesting the passage of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025. The lawmakers, chanting “APC Ole” (meaning “APC thieves”), objected to a clause allowing manual transmission of election results as a backup in case of technological failure.
The controversy centers around Clause 60(3), which mandates electronic transmission of results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) IReV portal, but includes a proviso allowing manual transmission if electronic transmission fails. Opposition lawmakers argue this undermines electoral transparency and opens the door to manipulation .
The walkout followed a failed attempt to remove the manual transmission option. Rep. Bamidele Salam moved a motion to delete the provision, arguing elections should be transmitted electronically without exceptions, but the “nays” prevailed in a voice vote.
Minority Leader Rep. Kingsley Chinda stated the opposition couldn’t support provisions opening the door to manipulation, and they would continue mobilizing public opinion against the bill. The lawmakers also objected to Clause 84, which deals with party candidate nomination procedures.
The House had earlier rescinded its December 2025 passage of the bill to address inconsistencies. Despite the protest, the House proceeded with amendments, setting the stage for intense political debate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe had called for removal of the manual transmission proviso, but the Senate voted 55-15 to retain it. The bill now moves to a conference committee to finalize differences.
The opposition argues manual collation could recreate vulnerabilities seen in past disputed polls, while supporters claim it’s necessary for areas with unreliable network coverage.
The drama highlights deep partisan divisions over Nigeria’s electoral reforms, with the minority vowing to continue pushing for stricter electronic safeguards.
The Electoral Act amendment bill’s passage has sparked concerns about the country’s electoral process and transparency.
