Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, on Monday joined protesters at the Occupy National Assembly demonstration in Abuja, condemning the Senate’s decision to exclude mandatory electronic transmission of election results from the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
The protest, which drew civil society groups, youth activists, and pro-democracy advocates, was organized to register strong opposition to what demonstrators described as a deliberate setback to Nigeria’s electoral reforms. Chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards, protesters demanded a transparent and technology-driven electoral process that reflects the true will of the people.
Addressing the crowd, Obi expressed deep concern over the Senate’s action, warning that the exclusion of compulsory electronic transmission of results could undermine public confidence in future elections. He stressed that credible elections remain the foundation of democracy and urged lawmakers to prioritize national interest over partisan considerations.
According to him, electronic transmission of results would significantly reduce electoral fraud, enhance transparency, and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Obi called on the National Assembly to urgently reconsider the decision and align the Electoral Act with global best practices.
The demonstration took place under heavy security presence, with protesters insisting they would continue to engage peacefully until their demands are addressed. As of the time of filing this report, the National Assembly had not issued an official response to the protest or Peter Obi’s participation.
The controversy surrounding the Electoral Act Amendment Bill has continued to spark nationwide debate, with many stakeholders warning that failure to entrench electronic transmission of results could reverse gains made in Nigeria’s electoral process.
