Nigeria TV Info 

Experts Warn Amendment of Electoral Act May Weaken Electronic Transmission

Legal experts, civil society groups and election observers have raised concerns that proposed amendments to Nigeria’s Electoral Act could weaken provisions supporting electronic transmission of election results.

The experts argue that electronic transmission, introduced to improve transparency and credibility in elections, has helped reduce manipulation of results between polling units and collation centres. According to them, any move to dilute the legal backing for digital transmission may reverse gains recorded in recent electoral cycles.

They warned that removing or altering sections that empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to electronically transmit results could create loopholes for interference, delay in collation, and disputes over authenticity.

Some lawmakers backing the amendment say the changes are aimed at clarifying ambiguities and strengthening the legal framework. However, critics insist that reforms should expand, not restrict, technological innovations that enhance electoral integrity.

Civil society organisations have called for broad consultations before any amendment is passed, urging the National Assembly to prioritise transparency, voter confidence, and democratic accountability.

Stakeholders maintain that credible elections remain the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy, stressing that any legislative review must protect the integrity of the electoral process.