The Digest:
Former Education Minister Obiageli Ezekwesili has called on the Senate to reverse its recent decision and adopt a clause mandating real-time electronic transmission of election results in the Electoral Act amendment. In a statement, Ezekwesili warned lawmakers against “playing with fire” by retaining ambiguous language in Section 60, which leaves transmission methods to INEC’s discretion. She argued that optional electronic transmission offers no safeguard against electoral fraud and replicates the loophole that fueled controversy during the 2023 polls. Ezekwesili urged senators to reconvene, cancel their two-week break, and unanimously pass the proposed amendment to ensure transparency and restore public trust.
Key Points:
- Clarity in electoral law is critical to preventing manipulation and upholding the integrity of election results.
- Retaining discretionary provisions may perpetuate the trust deficit between citizens and electoral institutions.
- Civil society pressure highlights growing public demand for enforceable technological safeguards in elections.
- The call reflects broader concerns about Nigeria’s democratic resilience amid recurring electoral disputes.
- Legislative responsiveness to such advocacy could shape the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
Sources: TheCable
