Rotimi Amaechi Joins National Assembly Protest for Electronic Election Results Transmission
Former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, made a significant appearance at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on the morning of February 10, joining protesters demanding the mandatory inclusion of real-time electronic transmission of election results in the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act. This demonstration highlights the escalating controversy surrounding the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Growing Momentum for Electoral Transparency
The protest, organized by various civil society organizations, youth groups, and concerned citizens, gained additional momentum with Amaechi's participation. Videos circulating online show the former governor standing alongside demonstrators, adding his voice to calls for a more credible and transparent electoral process. This event follows closely on the heels of a similar demonstration where former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also joined protesters at the National Assembly, creating a bipartisan push for electoral reform.
The Core Debate: Mandatory vs. Discretionary Transmission
At the heart of the controversy lies a fundamental disagreement about how election results should be transmitted. Many Nigerians and civil society actors are urging the National Assembly to make real-time electronic transmission of results compulsory, arguing that this would enhance transparency and reduce electoral malpractice. However, some lawmakers maintain that the provision should remain discretionary, citing logistical challenges and infrastructural limitations across various parts of the country.
The Senate has repeatedly denied claims that it rejected electronic transmission of election results in the amendment process, issuing several clarifications to counter what it described as misinformation about its position. Despite these denials, the renewed protest reflects growing public pressure on the legislature to amend the bill in a manner that guarantees transparent collation and transmission of results ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amaechi's Political Allegations
Speaking to journalists during the protest, Amaechi made pointed allegations against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming the party opposes electronic transmission of election results because it fears losing elections. "I believe that the opposition parties should come out—PDP, ADC, everybody should be out—to protest against the attempt of one party," Amaechi declared.
He further questioned the APC's position, asking: "If we come out, and they say the opposition has hijacked (the protest), what is APC doing? Are they not hijacking? What are they afraid of? I thought they said they have 31 governors. Tinubu is not Jonathan. The only way a good politician will know he has done well is by the people."
Comparative Assessment of Administrations
Drawing from his experience serving under former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, Amaechi offered a critical comparison of current conditions. "Is life easier now than when I was in the APC? Life is worse now than during the former President Buhari regime," he stated, highlighting his perspective on the current administration's performance.
The protest at the National Assembly represents a significant moment in Nigeria's ongoing electoral reform discussions, bringing together political figures from different backgrounds to advocate for technological solutions to enhance electoral integrity. As the 2027 elections approach, the debate over electronic transmission of results continues to shape political discourse and public engagement with electoral processes.
