#OccupyNASS2026: Why I brought my first son to protest with me – Amaechi

Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi says he brought his son to the ongoing protest against the Senate’s rejection of real-time electronic transmission of election results to show leadership by example and provide medical support if protesters get injured.

Amaechi spoke on Tuesday while addressing reporters at the protest in Abuja, where he appeared alongside his son, who is a medical doctor.

The protest, which began on Monday, is against the Senate’s decision to reject mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results.

Amaechi said he deliberately came with his son because he believes leaders should be at the forefront of major protests with their families.

He added that his son’s presence was also practical, explaining that the doctor could treat injured protesters if the demonstration turns violent.

The former Minister of Transportation also alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is afraid of electronic transmission of election results because it fears losing elections.

He called on opposition parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the protest, insisting all opposition groups should be on the streets.

“I believe that the opposition parties should come out—PDP, ADC, everybody should be out—to protest against the attempt of one party,” Amaechi said.

“If we come out, and they say the opposition has hijacked (the protest), what is APC doing? Are they not hijacking? What are they afraid of? I thought they said they have 31 governors. Tinubu is not Jonathan. The only way a good politician will know he has done well is by the people.”

Amaechi said opposition parties and civil society organisations would continue to push until the decision is reversed.

Meanwhile, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force barricaded major roads leading to the National Assembly ahead of an emergency Senate plenary.