Jos, Plateau State – Senator Diket Plang, representing Plateau Central Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised concerns over Nigeria’s preparedness for the recently mandated real-time electronic transmission of election results.
Speaking at a press briefing at his Jos residence on Sunday, Plang highlighted infrastructure gaps and technological challenges that, in his view, could undermine the integrity of instant result reporting.
“Infrastructure Not Ready” for Real-Time Election Transmission
Plang acknowledged the need for transparency in Nigeria’s electoral system but urged a pragmatic transition.
“We must be honest with ourselves: our infrastructure is not yet there. While we aspire for a system where results are seen instantly, we must consider the realities of network coverage and technological literacy across the 774 local governments. Nigeria is not yet fully ready for a 100% real-time electronic transmission without risk of disenfranchisement or system failure,” he stated.
He stressed that efforts should focus on building a robust, tamper-proof system before making real-time electronic transmission the sole standard for validating election outcomes.
Mining Disaster Claims 37 Lives in Wase
Senator Plang also addressed the devastating mining explosion in Kampani Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area, which killed 37 miners last week.
Describing the incident as a “colossal loss” for Plateau State, he called on the Federal Government to:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the tragedy
- Provide immediate relief and compensation to affected families
- Ensure mining companies prioritize worker safety over profit
Plang urged stricter enforcement of safety protocols in the solid minerals sector to prevent future disasters.
Rising Insecurity in Kanam LGA
The lawmaker further condemned recent banditry attacks in Kanam Local Government Area, which have displaced residents and claimed lives.
“The people of Kanam deserve to live in peace. We cannot continue to bury our vibrant youths and farmers due to the activities of bandits and criminal elements,” Plang said.
He noted ongoing collaboration with security agencies and the State government to strengthen protection in vulnerable border communities.
Commitment to Plateau and APC Agenda
Concluding the briefing, Plang reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and pledged continued advocacy for legislative initiatives benefiting Plateau Central. He revealed that his office is reviewing a motion to address the environmental impact of mining in Plateau, aimed at preventing future disasters like the Wase explosion.
