Proceedings in the Nigerian Senate became tense on Tuesday as lawmakers clashed over a motion to reverse the decision on electronic transmission of election results in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, 2026.
The motion, sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno of Borno North, sought to revisit Clause 60(3) of the bill, which outlines the modalities for electronic transmission of results. Monguno argued that sending the clause back to the Committee of the Whole would strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process, contrary to claims that the review would weaken it. His request was based on Orders 1(b) and 52(6) of the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended).
While the motion was seconded, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South raised a point of order, insisting that the clause could not be revisited in the manner proposed and that senators should vote individually on the matter.
The disagreement quickly escalated, with multiple lawmakers speaking simultaneously and challenging the procedural validity of the motion. Some expressed concern that approving the motion could set a precedent for overturning previously made Senate decisions.
After several minutes, Senate leadership restored order. Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed senators to return to their seats, asking Abaribe if he wished to formally pursue his point of order. The Abia senator declined, allowing the session to resume smoothly.
