Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has cautioned that the introduction of electronic transmission of election results does not automatically guarantee free, fair, and credible elections.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interview on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television programme, Sani was reacting to the recent passage of the amended Electoral Act by the Nigerian Senate.
The Senate approved the electronic transmission of election results on Tuesday, retaining manual collation as a backup. While supporting technological improvements in the electoral process, Sani stressed that manipulation remains possible where there is intent.
“Electronic transfer does not mean that we’re going to have 100% free and fair election. There is no electoral system that those who intend to rig cannot circumvent,” Sani said.
He added that while laws exist to prevent voter inducement, enforcement remains a challenge due to limited manpower. “Even with regulations, people will find ways to manipulate votes if there is intent. We must recognize that technology alone cannot eliminate electoral malpractice,” he noted.
Sani’s comments highlight ongoing concerns about electoral integrity in Nigeria, emphasizing that reforms must be accompanied by strong enforcement and civic accountability to ensure credible outcomes.
