The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the Nigerian Senate’s rejection of the electronic transmission of election results from polling units, describing the decision as a major setback to electoral integrity and democratic consolidation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, expressed deep disappointment over the Senate’s action while passing the amendment to the Electoral Act.
“Today, after an intentional and protracted delay, the Senate, while passing the amendment to the Electoral Act, rejected the electronic transmission of results from polling units. This rejection is most shameful and unfortunate, attracting condemnation from all democratic-minded persons,” the statement said.
The PDP reminded lawmakers that they are custodians of power delegated to them by the electorate and are duty-bound to reflect the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians at all times.
“It is common knowledge that the overwhelming majority of Nigerians across the 109 Senatorial Districts desire electoral sanctity, which is better guaranteed through the electronic transmission of results from polling units,” the party stated.
According to the PDP, the rejection ignores the persistent problem of result manipulation, noting that alterations often occur before results reach collation centres or during the collation process itself.
“Electronic transmission would have brought an end to this ignoble practice that has been deployed by desperate politicians to win elections against the clearly expressed will of the people through the ballot,” the party added.
The opposition party described the Senate’s decision as a clear indication that the National Assembly is unwilling to enact laws that strengthen electoral credibility and democratic growth.
“This is indeed a sad day for Nigeria’s electoral democracy,” the statement noted.
The PDP therefore called on the National Assembly to urgently reconsider its position and pass the necessary amendment approving the electronic transmission of election results.
“This is the minimum reform required to restore public confidence in the electoral process. Without it, voter apathy may worsen beyond what was witnessed in the last general election—an outcome that is profoundly harmful to democracy,” the party warned.