Protesters storm National Assembly, demand real-time upload of election results

Protesters on Tuesday returned to the National Assembly Complex in Abuja for the second consecutive day, escalating their demand for the real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) IReV portal.

The demonstrators, who gathered at the main entrance of the complex, chanted solidarity songs and slogans as they pressed lawmakers to expedite consideration and passage of the proposed legislation mandating electronic transmission of results.

“We no go gree, we no go gree, Akpabio, pass the bill,” the protesters chanted repeatedly, directing their message at Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. Others echoed, “Our vote must count,” underscoring their demand for electoral transparency and accountability.

Many of the demonstrators carried placards bearing bold inscriptions such as “Don’t alter the bill, pass it,” “Rigging election is a coup,” and “Protect the sanctity of our votes.” The protest reflected growing public pressure on the leadership of the National Assembly to prioritise reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process.

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At the heart of the agitation is the call for results from polling units to be transmitted in real time to INEC’s IReV portal — a move supporters argue would enhance transparency, curb manipulation, and boost public confidence in election outcomes.

The protesters insisted that any amendment to the bill that weakens provisions for electronic transmission would undermine democratic progress. They urged lawmakers to resist political pressure and ensure the legislation reflects the will of the electorate.

Security operatives were deployed around the National Assembly complex to maintain order, although the protest remained peaceful as of press time.

The renewed demonstration signals sustained civic engagement over electoral reforms, with activists vowing to continue the pressure campaign until lawmakers act decisively on the proposed bill.