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The Digest:

Prominent Arise TV journalist Rufai Oseni has sharply criticized the Senate's revised Electoral Act amendment, which permits electronic transmission of results but includes a manual fallback clause. According to Oseni's social media commentary, the provision is an "insult" and a deliberate "loophole to RIG the 2027 elections." He contrasted the Senate's version with the House of Representatives' bill, which mandates real-time transmission without exception. Oseni's reaction, covered by Arise TV and other outlets, centers on the argument that leaving a discretion for "technology failure" undermines transparency and public trust in the electoral process.

Key Points:
  • The criticism highlights direct public concern over whether future election results will reflect the true will of the people.
  • It frames the legislative debate as having significant consequences for democratic legitimacy and national stability.
  • The controversy suggests potential beneficiaries could be actors within the political system, rather than the electorate seeking transparency.
  • Oseni's reaction signals a deep public distrust in how key institutions interpret and implement electoral reforms.
  • The timing is critical as it shapes the legal landscape for the 2027 elections, making this a defining pre-election issue.
The strong public critique places pressure on the National Assembly's harmonization committee to reconcile the differing versions of the bill.

Sources: Arise TV, Premium Times