A Political analyst, Dr Emmanuel Osilem, has condemned the National Assembly’s refusal to mandate real-time electronic transmission of election results as a provocative blow to credible elections and a “sad development” for Nigeria’s democracy.
In an interview with our correspondent, Dr Osilem described the lawmakers’ decision embedded in the recently passed Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 as unimaginable and laughable, arguing that those who should champion free and fair polls are instead erecting barriers to electoral reform.
“It is unimaginable that the lawmakers, who ought to be fronting for free and fair elections, are creating issues against measures to improve our electoral process,” he said.
“A veritable window for credible elections, based on our past experiences, is anchored on instant transfer of results via electronic means.”
Dr Osilem said that for the people in the National Assembly who are supposed to be a beacon of hope for democracy, to vote against real-time transmission of election results is both laughable and provocative.
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According to him, “This is one of the saddest moments in our democratization process.”
The Political analyst alleged that the rejection signals lawmakers’ vested interest in a flawed system from which they benefit.
He questioned the true independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), wondering why its recommendations for better election conduct were dismissed.
Despite the setback, the analyst remained optimistic, insisting that credible elections remain “non-negotiable” for Nigerians.
“Someday, Nigerians will realise their wishes and aspirations in the electioneering process. Time will come when we will get what we want—ensuring that people we vote for actually occupy the offices.”
Dr Osilem’s comments echo broader public outrage over the clause, with civil society and opposition voices decrying it as a retreat from transparency gains.
