Senate President Announces Timeline for Electoral Act Signing Amid Protests

Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu is expected to sign the amended Electoral Act into law this February, despite ongoing public criticism and protests against the proposed changes.

Akpabio made the announcement during a Senate plenary session, where he disclosed the formation of a 12-member conference committee. This committee is tasked with harmonizing differences between the Senate and the House of Representatives on the electoral amendment bills.

“We have raised our numbers from nine to twelve to match the figures from our colleagues in the House of Reps. We expect everything to be done in the next few days or in a week. The President is expected to sign this into law in February,” Akpabio said.

This move comes as the National Assembly faces significant backlash from citizens and activists who allege that the amendments are designed to weaken electoral integrity. Protests, organized under the banner of #OccupyNASS, took place at the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Monday.

Prominent activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who joined the demonstrations, accused the political class of crafting laws to favor manipulation. “These people cannot win in free and fair elections,” Sowore stated, arguing that the ruling elite fears transparent electoral processes.

While much of the public debate has centered on electronic transmission of results, Sowore emphasized a broader concern for systemic reform. “I am more interested in electronic voting,” he said, stressing the need to protect the integrity of votes from the point of casting.

Sowore also cautioned security agencies against using force on peaceful protesters, reminding them of their constitutional duty to protect citizens. He described the gathering as a sign of rising political consciousness among Nigerians.

Despite the growing opposition, Akpabio’s comments indicate a determined push by the legislature to finalize the amendments, setting the stage for continued tension between lawmakers and advocates for comprehensive electoral reform.