Protesters Demand E-Transmission of Election Results in Abuja

On February 17, 2026, a protest erupted at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where demonstrators demanded the mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results. The rally, organized by civil society groups, began peacefully at 9:00 AM but escalated when security forces fired tear gas to disperse the crowd around noon.

Protesters insisted that lawmakers adopt provisions for unconditional electronic transmission of poll unit results, highlighting a broader citizen movement for electoral integrity in Nigeria. Andrew Mamedu, the country director of ActionAid Nigeria, emphasized that millions of Nigerians are demanding that their votes be counted.

The protest coincided with ongoing discussions to harmonize two versions of a proposed amendment to the electoral act, with civil society urging the adoption of the House of Representatives' version. Activists, including Omoyele Sowore and Obi Ezekwesili, warned lawmakers against political pressure and financial inducements, stating that failure to adopt the House version could lead to widespread litigation.

The protest was described as peaceful despite police intervention.