Proceedings in the House of Representatives on Tuesday descended into disorder as lawmakers clashed over a motion to rescind the Electoral Act Amendment bill.

Francis Waive, chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, moved the motion seeking to reverse the December 23, 2025 passage of the bill.

During plenary, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the motion to a voice vote. Observers noted that the “nays” were louder than the “ayes,” yet the speaker ruled that the motion had been defeated.

The ruling sparked protests from several lawmakers, who shouted in objection to the decision.

In response, Speaker Abbas called for an executive session to discuss the matter further, though the proposal to rescind the bill was ultimately rejected.

Despite the opposition, the speaker proceeded to move the House into the executive session, where discussions continued away from the public floor.

The December passage of the Electoral Act Amendment bill included a key provision mandating the real-time transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s result viewing portal (IReV).

Lawmakers’ disagreement underscores ongoing tensions in the House regarding electoral reforms and the use of technology in election management.

Observers say the episode highlights divisions within the chamber over the pace and implementation of electoral reforms.

The House is expected to resume deliberations on related electoral issues in upcoming sessions.