Some opposition political parties in Nigeria have expressed concern over the recent decision of the Senate to reject a proposal seeking to make the real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units mandatory, following the consideration of amendments to the Electoral Act 2022.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Comrade Ini Ememobong, alongside spokespersons of other opposition parties, the parties noted that the Senate’s decision has generated discussions among Nigerians on the future of electoral reforms and democratic consolidation.
The opposition parties observed that technology has increasingly become a key component of modern electoral processes and expressed the view that its wider application could further strengthen transparency and public confidence in elections.
They also noted that electronic platforms are already being deployed in other areas of political administration, including party membership registration.
According to the statement, the parties had expected lawmakers to consider reforms that would enhance clarity and certainty in the electoral framework.
They recalled that during the last general elections, judicial interpretations, including rulings by the Supreme Court indicated that electronic transmission of results was not mandatory under the existing provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, a situation they believe revealed areas that could benefit from legislative review.
The opposition parties maintained that making electronic transmission of results mandatory could help address concerns raised in previous elections and further improve trust in the electoral process.
They noted that the matter will now be considered by the Conference Committee of the National Assembly and expressed hope that its members would carefully review all perspectives, with a view to adopting measures they believe would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process and reflect the broader public interest.