Protesters have marched on Nigeria’s National Assembly complex carrying mattresses, pillows and sleeping kits in a symbolic show of defiance as they demanded lawmakers mandate real-time electronic transmission of election results.
Some demonstrators were seen lying on mattresses within the protest area, drawing attention as the group vowed to remain at the complex until their demands were addressed.
The protest centres on ongoing controversy over proposed amendments to Nigeria’s Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be legally required to transmit polling unit results electronically and in real time.
Demonstrators say mandatory electronic transmission would strengthen transparency, reduce manipulation and boost public confidence in the electoral process. They accuse lawmakers of attempting to weaken reforms by retaining discretionary language that allows INEC to determine how results are transmitted.
“This is about protecting the integrity of our votes,” one protester said. “If the law is not clear, elections will continue to be disputed.”
The protest comes amid growing pressure from civil society groups, professional bodies and opposition figures urging the National Assembly to amend the law to remove ambiguity around result transmission.
Some lawmakers, however, have pushed back against making electronic transmission compulsory, citing logistical challenges, uneven internet coverage and infrastructural constraints in remote areas of the country.
A heavy security presence was visible around the National Assembly complex, with police and other security personnel deployed to maintain order as the demonstration continued peacefully.
Nigeria has faced repeated post-election disputes, with critics arguing that gaps in the legal framework governing result transmission have contributed to mistrust in electoral outcomes.
The protesters say they will sustain pressure on lawmakers as debate over the Electoral Act amendment continues.
