The Senate on Tuesday commenced an emergency plenary session to deliberate on proposed amendments to the Electoral Act, following rising public pressure and protests around the National Assembly complex.
The sitting comes days after the passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, 2026, which has triggered strong reactions from civil society groups, opposition parties, labour unions, professional associations and youth organisations across the country.
Why the Senate Reconvened
Lawmakers reconvened amid growing concerns over the implications of the amendments for Nigeria’s electoral process. Critics argue that some provisions could weaken transparency and public trust ahead of future elections.
The protests outside the National Assembly underscored the urgency of the situation, forcing legislative leaders to respond swiftly to mounting national attention.
Proceedings Under Senate Leadership
The emergency plenary is being presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, with senators in attendance across party lines.
Earlier, the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, announced the sitting on Sunday, stating that the Senate President had directed members to reconvene for an urgent session on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Proceedings officially began at noon, with deliberations expected to focus on contentious sections of the amendment bill.
Public Attention And Political Pressure
Outside the chambers, Nigerians continue to monitor developments closely. Civil society organisations and opposition leaders insist that the Senate must revisit the amendments to protect electoral integrity and democratic participation.
Labour unions and youth groups have also called for transparency, warning that public confidence in the electoral system remains fragile.
The situation reflects broader concerns about governance, accountability and citizen engagement in Nigeria’s democratic process.
What Comes Next
The outcome of the emergency session could determine whether the Senate reviews, modifies or maintains the amendments in their current form.
As deliberations continue, attention remains fixed on the National Assembly, with many Nigerians awaiting decisions that could shape the country’s electoral framework ahead of future polls.
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