By James
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Proceedings in the House of Representatives descended into disorder on Tuesday after a fierce confrontation erupted over the clause-by-clause consideration of a report proposing the rescission of parts of the Electoral Amendment Act.
What began as routine legislative business quickly spiraled into open hostility when the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who was presiding over plenary, was accused of skipping certain clauses while reading through the report.
The perceived omission ignited immediate backlash from several lawmakers, who alleged that the presiding officer was attempting to sidestep contentious provisions embedded in the document. Shouts of protest filled the chamber as aggrieved members rose from their seats, gesticulating angrily and demanding strict adherence to parliamentary procedure.
The tension escalated as some legislators moved toward the aisle in apparent preparation for a walkout, while others pointed fingers across the floor in heated exchanges. The uproar brought legislative business to a temporary standstill, forcing a pause in deliberations.
Members insisting on procedural compliance argued that every clause of the report must be exhaustively considered in line with established House rules, particularly given the sensitivity of electoral reforms and their far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic framework.
As of press time, attempts were ongoing to calm frayed nerves and restore order in the chamber, with principal officers engaging dissenting lawmakers behind the scenes.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
