A coalition of civil society organizations, pro-democracy advocates, and concerned citizens have strongly condemned the recent violent dispersal of peaceful protesters at the National Assembly in Abuja and called for an immediate, independent investigation into the Nigeria Police Force's actions.
The protesters, who gathered on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to demand the mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results in the ongoing Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill deliberations, were met with unprovoked tear gas canisters and brute force.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage show security operatives firing tear gas at demonstrators including women, youth, and elderly participants causing panic, injuries, and at least one reported case of an elderly woman fainting.
Additional reports indicate instances of physical assault, property damage, and even the seizure of a motorist's vehicle during the crackdown.
The peaceful assembly was part of broader calls for electoral reforms to ensure transparency, credibility, and public trust in Nigeria's democratic processes ahead of the 2027 general elections. Protesters emphasized that real-time transmission of results to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IREV) is essential to prevent manipulation and uphold the integrity of the electoral system.
"The use of tear gas and excessive force against citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly is an affront to democracy and a clear violation of fundamental human rights," said a spokesperson for the coalition. "This incident is not isolated but part of a troubling pattern where security forces prioritize suppressing dissent over protecting citizens and upholding the rule of law."
The group highlighted condemnations from prominent figures, including activist Omoyele Sowore, who described the police action as "a declaration of war on Nigerians and participatory democracy." Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and other stakeholders have also faulted the police clampdown.
The coalition demands: An independent judicial probe into the police operations, including identification and sanctioning of officers responsible for the excessive use of force.
Full accountability from the Nigeria Police Force leadership for deploying anti-riot measures against unarmed, peaceful citizens. Immediate medical attention and compensation for all injured protesters.
An end to intimidation of citizens advocating for electoral transparency and reforms. Swift passage of electoral amendments that guarantee mandatory electronic transmission of results without dilution.
"Nigerians have the right to demand better governance and transparent elections without fear of repression," the statement continued. "We stand in solidarity with the protesters and will pursue all legal avenues, including potential litigation against responsible authorities, to ensure justice is served."
The coalition urges the National Assembly, the Presidency, the Nigeria Police Force, and international observers to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves, as the protection of democratic rights is fundamental to Nigeria's stability and progress.