By Ranmilowo Ojalumo
The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, on Tuesday threw his weight behind the Senate’s approval of electronic transmission of election results, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Kalu, a former governor of Abia State and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made this known in a statement on his social media handle following an emergency plenary session of the Senate.
According to him, the Senate adopted the amended Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act, which allows presiding officers to electronically transmit election results from polling units after Form EC8A has been duly completed and signed.
He explained that under the new provision, electronic transmission will serve as the primary method of result transmission where the necessary technology is available and functional. However, in cases where electronic transmission fails or becomes impossible, the duly signed Form EC8A will remain the valid and primary source of results.
Kalu described the amendment as a balanced and inclusive approach that takes into account Nigeria’s uneven access to digital infrastructure, particularly in rural and network-challenged communities.
“This balanced approach strengthens transparency, fairness and credibility in our electoral process, while ensuring that voters in network-challenged communities are not disenfranchised,” the senator said.
He stressed that the decision underscores the Senate’s resolve to deepen democratic governance and restore public confidence in elections.
“Our democracy must work for every Nigerian, everywhere,” Kalu added.
The approval of electronic transmission of election results has long been a contentious issue in Nigeria’s electoral reforms, with advocates arguing that it reduces manipulation, improves transparency and enhances the credibility of elections.