Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday joined protesters in Abuja demonstrating against the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results.
The protest, which began on Monday, was organised by civil society groups and opposition figures in response to the Senate’s decision to block real-time electronic transmission of election results, a move critics say could undermine electoral transparency.
Amaechi attended the protest alongside his son, a medical doctor. He explained that he brought his son along in case the protest turned violent and medical assistance became necessary. He also said his presence with his son was meant to demonstrate that leaders should actively participate in protests alongside ordinary citizens.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of the protest organisers, called on Nigerians and opposition parties to mobilise against the Senate’s decision.
Amaechi accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of opposing electronic transmission out of fear of losing elections.
“I believe that the opposition parties should come out—PDP, ADC, everybody should be out—to protest against the attempt of one party,” Amaechi said.
He questioned why the APC would resist electronic transmission despite claiming widespread political support across the country.
Amaechi also warned that protests would continue until the Senate reverses its decision, even if Senate President Godswill Akpabio and President Bola Tinubu initially ignore public pressure.
The protest is being led by human rights activist Aisha Yesufu alongside civil society organisations. Meanwhile, security operatives barricaded roads leading to the National Assembly ahead of an emergency Senate plenary session.
The controversy over electronic transmission is part of broader debates on electoral reforms and transparency ahead of future elections in Nigeria.
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