Nigeria’s Senate has scheduled an emergency plenary session for Tuesday, 10th February 2026, amid rising public controversy over its recent actions on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill.
The notice was issued Sunday by Senate Clerk Dr. Emmanuel Odo on the directive of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, saying the session will begin at 12 p.m. and all senators are expected to attend.
The emergency sitting follows widespread criticism of the upper chamber’s rejection last week of a key provision in the Electoral Act bill that would have made the electronic transmission of election results mandatory in “real time.”
In its place, lawmakers retained a more flexible wording that allows the Independent National Electoral Commission to “transfer” results as prescribed, drawing sharp public reaction.
The Senate had adjourned plenary for two weeks after passing the bill, originally to allow lawmakers to participate in budget defence sessions.
But with the controversy growing over electoral transparency, the emergency plenary is seen as the chamber’s effort to revisit or clarify disputed elements of the law.
Senate President Akpabio has defended the Senate’s decision, saying the removal of the term “real time” was meant to ensure inclusive elections even in areas with poor network coverage.
Critics, including civil society groups, political parties and the Nigeria Labour Congress, say the move undermines efforts to make Nigeria’s elections more transparent and credible.
The emergency session is expected to focus on the Electoral Act bill’s contentious clauses, with lawmakers under pressure to address public concerns as the 2027 general election approaches.
