SENATE
Olamilekan Abayomi
The Nigerian Senate has approved an amendment to the Electoral Act, allowing for electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IREV). This move aims to enhance transparency, reduce manipulation, and boost public confidence in the electoral process, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The amendment permits the use of manual result sheets (Form EC8A) as a backup for collation and declaration of results if electronic transmission fails due to network or technical issues. This decision acknowledges Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges and provides a pragmatic solution to potential technical glitches.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized that the manual sheet will serve as the primary source of collation if electronic transmission is unsuccessful. He assured that the amendment is designed to improve the credibility of the electoral process.
The amendment has sparked debate among stakeholders. Some argue that relying on manual sheets as a backup may undermine electoral transparency and create opportunities for manipulation. Others see it as a necessary measure to ensure the electoral process isn’t hindered by technical issues.
INEC had previously expressed concerns about the feasibility of electronic transmission, citing infrastructure challenges. The commission’s chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, had emphasized the need for robust systems to support electronic transmission.
The amendment is seen as a compromise between ensuring transparency and addressing practical challenges. By allowing manual sheets as a backup, the Senate aims to balance the need for technological advancement with the reality of Nigeria’s infrastructure limitations.
The implications of this amendment will be closely watched, particularly by civil society organizations and opposition parties. They may push for safeguards to prevent manipulation and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
