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Editors Raise Concern Over Senate Stance on Election Result Transmission
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing controversy surrounding the National Assembly’s position on the transmission of election results, warning that it could erode public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Editors said the Senate’s decision to adopt provisions in the proposed Electoral Act amendment that allow, but do not mandate, immediate electronic transmission of election results has already created doubt and mistrust among Nigerians.
According to the Guild, the uncertainty arising from the Senate’s position runs contrary to the widely held views of many Nigerians and some lawmakers who have consistently called for mandatory and real-time transmission of results from polling units.
The Editors warned that the growing public outrage over the issue has pitched citizens against the Senate and could potentially discourage voter participation in future elections.
“At a time when Nigerians are demanding mandatory and immediate transmission of election results and as countries around the world adopt electronic transmission to enhance transparency the Senate’s position leaves much to be desired,” the statement said.
The Guild described the development as a missed opportunity to strengthen transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process, noting that it undermines efforts to deepen democratic governance and ensure credible elections.
It added that mandatory electronic transmission of results has become a global standard for improving electoral credibility and efficiency, stressing that Nigeria should not lag behind international best practices.
As the Senate prepares to reconvene on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to harmonise its position with that of the House of Representatives, the Editors urged the National Assembly to seize the opportunity to approve mandatory and immediate transmission of election results from polling units to the INEC central server and collation centres.
The statement noted that real-time digital transmission would enhance transparency, accuracy, efficiency, and voter confidence, while also reducing disputes, minimising controversies, and significantly curbing electoral fraud.
“The digitalisation of elections, anchored on real-time transmission of results, is critical to achieving credible elections in Nigeria,” the Editors said, adding that Nigerians are watching the National Assembly closely.
The Guild warned that anything short of mandatory and immediate transmission would be out of step with contemporary and progressive electoral practices, insisting that such reforms are essential to ensuring that votes truly count.
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