Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has explained his decision to attend the “Occupy the National Assembly” protest in Abuja with his son, saying it was both a precautionary and symbolic move.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, Amaechi said his son, a medical doctor, accompanied him to provide immediate assistance should the demonstration turn violent or protesters sustain injuries.
He noted that his participation reflected his belief that political leaders must stand visibly with citizens during moments of national agitation rather than observe from a distance.
Amaechi used the occasion to call on Nigerians and opposition political parties to intensify protests against the Senate’s position on the Electoral Act amendment, particularly the controversy surrounding electronic transmission of election results.
He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of resisting real-time electronic transmission out of fear of electoral defeat, urging parties such as the PDP and ADC to mobilise their supporters.
According to him, concerns that opposition figures could hijack the protest were misplaced, questioning why the APC should be worried if it truly enjoys widespread public support.
Amaechi also criticised the current administration’s handling of governance and living conditions, comparing it unfavourably with the Muhammadu Buhari era in which he served.
He argued that, despite policy challenges at the time, there were clearer plans to cushion the impact on citizens.
He further alleged that corruption has worsened under President Bola Tinubu and expressed doubts about the President’s chances in the 2027 election, insisting that the ultimate decision would rest with the electorate.
Amaechi maintained that opposition parties and civil society groups would continue their advocacy regardless of the stance of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the presidency.
The protest comes amid heightened debate over amendments to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially the proposal on whether the Independent National Electoral Commission should be mandated to transmit election results electronically in real time from polling units.
While many Nigerians and civic groups support compulsory electronic transmission to enhance transparency, the Senate has argued that making it discretionary would allow flexibility due to logistical and infrastructural challenges.
Protesters, however, insist that removing the real-time requirement could create loopholes capable of undermining electoral credibility.
