The House of Representatives descended into chaos on Tuesday as lawmakers clashed over a motion to rescind the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2025, previously passed in December 2025.
The emergency sitting, convened ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections, focused solely on the proposed rescission and recommittal of the bill. Presiding over the session, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas commended members who had travelled from outside Abuja to participate, describing the deliberations as a critical national assignment.
“The issues before us will define the elections of 2027 and give a clear vision of what is expected,” Abbas said, stressing the urgency of revisiting certain provisions of the law.
The motion was sponsored by Francis Waive, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, who invoked Order Nine, Rule 6 of the House Standing Orders. Waive explained that a technical committee, comprising leadership from both chambers, conference committee members, clerks, and legal drafters, had reviewed the December 2025 bill and identified inconsistencies and unintended consequences requiring further legislative intervention.
“The House resolves to rescind its decision on the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2025 and recommit the bill to the Committee of the Whole for consideration,” Waive said, highlighting the need to ensure electoral laws promote “maximum participation, fairness, inclusivity, administrative efficiency and public confidence.”
The motion was seconded by Adebayo Balogun, who supported a fresh review of the bill.
Tension escalated when Speaker Abbas called for a voice vote. While several lawmakers shouted “nay,” Abbas ruled in favour of the “ayes,” striking the gavel. The decision triggered loud protests and a chaotic scene on the floor, briefly disrupting proceedings.
To restore order, the Speaker proposed a closed-door meeting, and lawmakers subsequently moved into an executive session to continue discussions. The outcome of the review is expected to significantly shape preparations for the 2027 general elections.