The House of Representatives has apologised to Nigerians following the use of tear gas on demonstrators at the National Assembly during protests against the recently amended Electoral Act.
Civil society groups, youth activists and opposition figures had gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja to demand that the law make real-time electronic transmission of election results mandatory ahead of the 2027 general elections. Protesters argued that provisions allowing manual collation where electronic transmission fails could undermine transparency and open the door to manipulation.
Tensions rose when security operatives blocked access to the complex and dispersed the crowd with tear gas, sparking widespread condemnation from rights groups and political actors who described the response as excessive and undemocratic.
Reacting to the incident, House spokesman Akin Rotimi said lawmakers were concerned by reports of the use of force against peaceful demonstrators and would review the circumstances surrounding the security action. He emphasised that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right and a legitimate avenue for citizens to engage with the legislative process.
The House subsequently apologised to those affected and assured the public that steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence, distancing the legislature from the conduct of security personnel at the scene.
The controversy comes amid deepening political divisions over the Electoral Act Amendment 2026, which retains manual result collation as a fallback where electronic transmission fails. Opposition parties and electoral reform advocates insist the provision weakens safeguards for credible elections, while supporters argue it provides a necessary contingency against technological failure.
The protest and its aftermath underscore mounting tension over electoral reforms as political actors position for the 2027 polls.
Abuja Network News
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