By Tomiwa Akinbamire
A wave of public reaction has followed the Senate’s rejection of mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results, triggering protests and renewed debate about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system.
The decision has raised pressing questions among citizens and political observers, many of whom are asking why a reform already recognized within the Electoral Act 2022 is now facing resistance.
The Electoral Act 2022, widely regarded as a technological upgrade to Nigeria’s electoral framework, contains provisions relating to electronic transmission of results. Section 50(2) empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to determine procedures for the transmission of election results, including electronic transmission. Section 60(5) mandates that the presiding officer transfer election results including the total number of accredited voters and ballot outcomes in a manner prescribed by INEC. Section 64 (4–6) outlines how collation officers should use transmitted results to verify or re-collate figures in cases of disputes.
Despite these provisions, the Senate’s rejection of making electronic transmission mandatory has intensified scrutiny over the future of electoral transparency in Nigeria.
The Senate’s position has sparked protests, with many Nigerians insisting that electoral credibility must not be compromised.
Activist Aisha Yesufu, speaking at a protest, declared “We’re citizens, we’re not slaves. We Nigerians are here today making demands from all walks of life and we’re saying we want electronic transmission of electoral results.
Former 2023 presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore described the National Assembly’s stance as a form of electoral fraud if electronic transmission is rejected. He argued that Nigerians should not only have electronic transmission but also the option of digital voting via mobile devices.
“If we can sit in our home and send money from the phone, then we can sit at home and vote for whoever we want too,” he said.Another advocate, Peter, questioned claims that network limitations make electronic transmission impractical. He argued that if criminal elements can use technology to communicate and collect ransom, then the electoral system should also be able to leverage digital infrastructure
These reactions highlight a growing distrust among segments of the population regarding electoral integrity. Many citizens argue that credible elections are essential for addressing national challenges such as insecurity, poor healthcare, and social instability. They insist that democracy can only function effectively when votes genuinely reflect the will of the people.
Observers suggest that restoring public confidence may require clear explanations from the Senate regarding its decision, transparent communication from INEC on technological readiness, and inclusive dialogue involving civil society, political actors, and citizens.
As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the central demand from many Nigerians remains unchanged: that their votes must count and that democratic processes must reflect the true will of the people.
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