A Rivers State-based human rights activist and Coordinator of the PILEX Centre for Civic Education Initiative, Courage Nsirimovu, has criticised the Nigerian Senate over its reported refusal to amend provisions of the Electoral Act to make electronic transmission of election results from polling units mandatory.
Speaking with our correspondent in Port Harcourt, Nsirimovu alleged that some members of the National Assembly were not sufficiently supporting reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process. According to him, the absence of mandatory electronic transmission could create gaps that undermine public trust in elections.
He further claimed that lawmakers have not always acted in the broader interest of Nigerians, suggesting that legislative priorities sometimes align more closely with executive considerations than with electoral reforms sought by citizens and civil society groups.
Nsirimovu warned that allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) discretion over how election results are transmitted may affect public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He argued that direct electronic transmission of results from polling units could help minimise opportunities for manipulation during the collation process.
Referencing past election observations, the activist alleged that irregularities have sometimes been reported between the announcement of results at polling units and their final collation, including claims of ballot material interference during transit.
He described Nigeria’s leadership challenges as partly linked to perceived weaknesses in the electoral system, stressing the need for reforms that promote credibility, accountability, and public confidence in elections.
Nsirimovu also urged citizens, civil society organisations, and stakeholders to continue advocating improvements in electoral transparency, emphasising that credible elections remain essential for democratic stability and national development.
