Pandemonium in Reps as Kalu ‘Fast-Tracks’ Electoral Act Amendment, Opposition Walks Out
ABUJA — The Green Chamber of Nigeria’s House of Representatives turned chaotic on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, following a dramatic confrontation over the alleged “fast-tracked” passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
What began as a routine plenary session quickly spiraled into a shouting match, walkout, and nationwide backlash — raising fresh concerns about transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What Happened in the Chamber?
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu presided over the clause-by-clause consideration of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
However, lawmakers from the minority caucus accused the presiding officer of adopting what they described as a “lightning-speed” review process.
According to eyewitness accounts and plenary footage, clauses were mentioned by number and swiftly approved within minutes, with little opportunity for debate or amendment.
The situation escalated when opposition lawmakers claimed they were denied the opportunity to properly examine sensitive provisions — particularly Clause 60, which concerns electronic transmission of election results.
The Controversial Clause 60
The core of the dispute centers on whether electronic transmission of results should be mandatory or optional.
The Senate’s version reportedly allows manual collation as a backup option, while earlier deliberations in the House were believed to favour stronger technological safeguards.
Opposition members alleged that the House leadership was steering lawmakers toward adopting the Senate’s position without full deliberation.
“APC Ole!” Chants Rock Chamber
Tensions peaked as opposition lawmakers began chanting “APC Ole!” (APC Thieves) before staging a dramatic walkout.
The Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, reportedly expressed outrage, accusing the leadership of undermining legislative independence.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) majority, however, remained in the chamber and completed the legislative process after the minority exit.
Public Outrage Trends Online
Videos from the plenary quickly went viral across social media platforms, triggering widespread criticism.
Several commentators questioned the speed of the process, arguing that a law shaping Nigeria’s 2027 electoral framework deserves exhaustive debate.
Civil society voices also warned that perceptions of opacity could erode public trust in the electoral process.
What Happens Next?
With both chambers reportedly aligning on the amended version, the bill is expected to be transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
If signed into law, the amendments will shape the conduct of the 2027 general elections — a contest already generating intense political maneuvering nationwide.
Why This Matters
Nigeria’s electoral reforms have remained a sensitive national issue since the 2023 elections. Any perceived weakening of electronic safeguards is likely to attract scrutiny from political parties, civil society groups, and the international community.
For millions of Nigerians watching from home, the speed of the gavel has raised bigger questions:
Was due legislative process followed?
Were lawmakers given adequate opportunity to debate?
Will the amended Act strengthen or weaken electoral transparency?
As 2027 approaches, Nigerians will be watching closely.
Stay with Headlineswave.ng for verified updates on this developing story.
