Reps Throw Out Motion to Reverse Electronic Results Transmission Clause After Heated Plenary Drama

A stormy session unfolded at the House of Representatives on Tuesday as lawmakers clashed over a controversial motion seeking to reverse an earlier decision on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, triggering loud protests and a rowdy atmosphere on the floor.

The tension began during plenary when the Chairman, Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, moved a motion urging the Green Chamber to rescind its previous passage of the amendment bill approved on December 23, 2025.

The proposed amendment includes a key provision mandating real-time electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission portal known as INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), a measure widely regarded as a major step toward strengthening transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Trouble, however, erupted when Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the motion to a voice vote. Although the “nays” appeared louder than the “ayes,” the Speaker ruled in favour of the motion, a decision that immediately drew sharp objections from several members.

Aggrieved lawmakers shouted in protest and demanded a more accurate determination of the vote, with some calling for a division to properly count positions. The chamber quickly descended into disorder as members traded words across party lines.

In an attempt to calm frayed nerves and restore order, the Speaker proposed that the House move into an executive (closed-door) session. The suggestion initially met resistance, further prolonging the tension, before members eventually complied and proceedings continued behind closed doors.

The dispute underscores deep divisions among lawmakers over the electronic transmission of election results — a subject that has remained contentious since it was introduced in the amendment bill. Observers say the outcome of the ongoing deliberations could significantly shape the framework for future elections.