Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reiterated her strong support for electronic transmission of election results, stating that Nigerians deserve an electoral process that inspires trust, credibility and national confidence. The lawmaker made this known as debates continue in the National Assembly over proposed amendments to Nigeria’s electoral framework.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, expressed her position amid renewed discussions on the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, particularly provisions relating to the transmission of results from polling units. Her comments came at a time when public attention is firmly focused on whether the law should explicitly mandate real-time electronic transmission of results.
According to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the integrity of elections is fundamental to democracy, and any system that strengthens transparency should be embraced. She noted that credible elections are essential for national stability and for restoring citizens’ faith in democratic institutions.
She stressed that electronic transmission of results helps to reduce human interference, limits manipulation during collation, and ensures that votes cast by Nigerians are accurately reflected in final outcomes. In her view, technology remains a critical tool for improving electoral accountability in the country.
The lawmaker further observed that Nigerians have repeatedly called for reforms that make elections more open and verifiable. She argued that ignoring these calls could deepen public distrust and discourage voter participation in future elections.
Her remarks followed controversy generated by moves in the Senate to review aspects of the electronic transmission clause, including concerns raised by some lawmakers about infrastructure, security, and implementation challenges. These concerns, however, have been countered by civil society groups and electoral reform advocates.
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Across the country, stakeholders including professional bodies, activists and opposition figures have continued to demand that lawmakers retain strong provisions for electronic transmission in the amended law. They argue that such measures are consistent with global democratic standards and Nigeria’s own electoral evolution.
Public demonstrations and advocacy campaigns have also intensified, with citizens urging the National Assembly to prioritise transparency over political interests. Protesters insist that safeguarding the credibility of elections is key to sustaining democracy ahead of future polls.
The House of Representatives is understood to have maintained clearer provisions supporting electronic transmission, setting the stage for possible harmonisation talks between both chambers of the National Assembly.
As deliberations continue, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s stance has added to the growing pressure on lawmakers to adopt reforms that reflect the will of the people. Many Nigerians now await the final outcome, hopeful that the amended electoral law will strengthen confidence in the nation’s democratic process.
