Nigeria is once again standing at a familiar but dangerous crossroads in its democratic journey. The recent decision of the Senate to decline a clear, mandatory provision for the electronic transmission of election results is not just a legislative choice, it is a political statement, and one that runs sharply against the will of the Nigerian people.
Electronic transmission of results has, over the years, emerged as one of the most widely supported electoral reforms in the country. It is viewed by citizens as a critical safeguard against result manipulation, human interference, and post-poll alterations that have historically undermined public trust in elections. By refusing to make this process mandatory, the Senate has chosen ambiguity over clarity and discretion over accountability.
The argument often advanced—that poor network coverage in rural areas makes mandatory electronic transmission impractical—rings hollow to many Nigerians. Elections are not conducted blindly; polling units with connectivity challenges are known in advance, and technological solutions already exist to address such gaps without abandoning the principle of transparency. What citizens demand is not perfection, but sincerity: a clear legal commitment that results, once announced at polling units, are promptly transmitted and protected from manipulation.
More troubling is the timing and optics of the Senate’s action. After declining mandatory electronic transmission, lawmakers proceeded on a two-week recess until 24 February, while a joint harmonisation committee with the House of Representatives is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 10 February 2025, chaired by Senator Adegbonmire of Ondo Central. To many Nigerians, this sequence appears calculated—pushing a controversial decision through, stepping away from public scrutiny, and leaving critical negotiations to a small committee removed from the glare of public accountability.
Across the country, citizens, particularly young people have made their position unmistakably clear. Nigerian youth, who have consistently demanded credible elections and transparent governance, see electronic transmission of results as non-negotiable. For them, this is not a technical issue; it is about restoring faith in democracy and ensuring that votes truly count. Any reform that weakens electoral transparency is perceived as a step backward, not forward.
This is why the Senate’s position is fundamentally at variance with the will of the people. Democracy thrives on trust, and trust is built on systems that are open, verifiable, and resistant to abuse. When lawmakers resist reforms that strengthen these systems, they risk deepening public cynicism and widening the gap between government and governed.
Citizens must not remain silent. Nigerians are called upon to join the national mass action scheduled for Monday, 9 February 2025, to peacefully but firmly register their opposition to this decision. Civic engagement, through protest, advocacy, and sustained public pressure is essential if the final outcome of the Electoral Act harmonisation process is to reflect the people’s will.
Finally, this moment presents a defining opportunity for Mr President. History remembers leaders not only for the laws they sign, but for the values they defend. By prevailing on the Senate to act in the best interest of the masses and to enshrine mandatory electronic transmission of results, the President can affirm his commitment to credible elections and democratic progress.
Nigeria deserves an electoral system that inspires confidence, not suspicion. The people have spoken. It is time for the Senate to listen, and for leadership to rise to the occasion.
Dr. Gbenga Adesunloro
Southwest YERP Naija Consortium
The New Generation Girls and Women Development Initiative