The House of Representatives on Tuesday announced that it would investigate the reported use of teargas on protesters at the National Assembly complex, pledging a thorough review of the incident.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

House spokesperson Hon. Akin Rotimi made the disclosure in a statement, expressing concern over reports that security personnel dispersed demonstrators who had gathered to voice their opinions on ongoing electoral reforms.

Rotimi emphasized that the Green Chamber fully recognises the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful protest.

He stated, “The House of Representatives has received with concern reports of the alleged use of teargas against protesters who assembled at the National Assembly to express their views on several pressing national issues. The House unequivocally affirms that the right to peaceful and lawful assembly is guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). This right is a cornerstone of democratic governance and a key avenue for citizen participation in the legislative process.”

While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to maintain order and protect lives and property, Rotimi stressed that such duties must be carried out professionally and with restraint.

“Security responsibilities must always be executed with professionalism, restraint, and full respect for citizens’ fundamental rights,” he said.

He added that the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs would liaise with relevant authorities to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“Where necessary, the House will take appropriate action under its oversight mandate to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences,” Rotimi said.

The spokesperson also urged protesters to remain law-abiding, reiterating that the House is “the People’s House.”

Eyewitness reports indicated that tension arose when some protesters, objecting to the Senate’s approval of electronic transmission alongside manual collation of election results, attempted to access the National Assembly complex. Security personnel reportedly deployed teargas canisters, causing panic. Several protesters, particularly women, fell while fleeing, and two reportedly fainted. Journalists covering the protest also reported eye irritation and breathing difficulties.

Peter Obi Condemns the Action

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned the teargassing of peaceful citizens demanding credible elections.

In a statement on his verified handle, Obi said, “Today, harmless citizens performing their constitutionally guaranteed duties peacefully were tear-gassed simply for asking for what is right — free, fair, and credible elections in a democratic nation.”

He warned that such actions undermine Nigeria’s democratic integrity and global reputation.

“Those who once claimed to champion democracy have today become destroyers of our democratic system and the worst enemies of good governance,” Obi added.

The former Anambra State governor urged citizens to unite against actions that could weaken democratic institutions and emphasized the need for electoral reforms.

“We insist on mandatory real-time electronic transmission of polling unit results to ensure transparency and trust in our elections,” he said.

Obi stressed that credible elections are essential for justice, good governance, and sustainable development, calling on Nigerians to remain steadfast in the pursuit of electoral reforms.