NLC warns of mass action over Senate’s electoral act changes
The Nigeria Labour Congress has threatened nationwide protests and election boycotts over Senate amendments to the Electoral Act. Joe Ajaero criticized the Senate for unclear positions on electronic transmission of election results, warning this undermines public trust. The NLC demands the Senate provide a clear and official account of the changes, insisting on mandatory real-time electronic transmission. The union says failure to address these concerns could lead to mass action by Nigerian workers and citizens.
What we know
- The NLC accused the Senate of creating confusion by not making electronic transmission of results mandatory in the amended Electoral Act.
- Joe Ajaero stated the lack of clarity threatens electoral integrity and could institutionalize doubt in the system.
- The Senate passed the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill 2026 through its third reading on February 4, 2026.
- Clause 60(3), which would have required mandatory electronic transmission of results, was voted down and replaced with a discretionary provision.
- The Senate has scheduled an emergency plenary sitting for Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to possibly reconsider the rejected amendment amid public outcry.
