Nigeria Senate Approves Live Electronic Publication of Election Results. Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigerian Senate has reversed its earlier decision, approving the live electronic publication of election results following widespread public backlash.
The approval, which came after an emergency meeting, aims to enhance transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.
Last week, the Senate had rejected a proposal to require polling units to upload results in real time, a move that led to public outrage. Protesters gathered outside parliament, accusing lawmakers of attempting to undermine transparency.
Now, with the unanimous approval, the Senate has agreed to the electronic transmission of results once voting and all required procedures are completed at polling stations.
According to local reports, the results will be sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IReV). This decision is seen as a significant step towards fostering transparency and trust in the electoral process, which has been marred by allegations of irregularities and vote rigging in the past. Supporters of the real-time transmission argue that it will increase transparency and reduce the possibility of electoral fraud.
However, opponents had previously expressed concerns about the technical feasibility and the potential for the system to be hacked.
The move is particularly significant as Nigeria heads toward general elections in early 2027. Experts argue that publishing results instantly on a central public platform could help restore trust in a system plagued by disputed outcomes and endless court cases.
Trust has been dwindling for years, with just 27 percent of the population voting in 2023, the lowest turnout since 1999.
Further details are expected as the implementation of the new system unfolds. Officials have not yet commented on the specific timeline or additional measures to ensure the security and accuracy of the electronic transmission.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
