Major opposition parties have condemned the Nigerian Senate’s rejection of mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units, warning that the move could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections and erode public confidence in the nation’s democracy.
In a joint statement, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) said the Senate’s decision raised “serious national concern” and warranted a unified response to Nigerians.
“The grave implications of this retrogressive act by the Senate compel us to address this issue, which is capable of derailing our hard-earned democracy,” the statement read.
The parties questioned why a ruling party that uses technology for nationwide e-registration of members would oppose the electronic transmission of election results. They accused the All Progressives Congress (APC), which controls both chambers of the National Assembly, of deliberately preserving weaknesses in the electoral system that could be exploited during elections.
“They know Nigerians are fed up with them and are aware of the rejection that awaits them at the polls. A free and fair election has therefore become a threat. This is why they must protect loopholes that could aid manipulation of the electoral process,” the statement added.
The opposition highlighted past judicial rulings noting that electronic transmission of results was not explicitly mandated under the 2022 Electoral Act, describing the current amendment process as a chance to improve transparency.
“With this rejection, the Senate has returned Nigeria to square one. The ball is now in the court of the conference committee, and we urge its members to align with the Nigerian people by adopting the House of Representatives’ position on mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results,” the parties said.
