A member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe, has called on members of the conference committee responsible for harmonizing the Electoral Bill to uphold provisions supporting real-time electronic transmission of election results.
In a statement addressed to members of the committee, Uzokwe expressed concern over developments in the Senate chamber, stating that the Senate’s position on the matter remains unchanged. He cautioned against what he described as attempts to mislead Nigerians regarding the current status of the proposed reforms.
According to the lawmaker, leaving the decision on electronic transmission solely at the discretion of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) does not represent meaningful progress. He argued that areas classified as lacking network service would remain excluded under such an arrangement.
Uzokwe maintained that the House of Representatives had fulfilled its responsibility by supporting real-time electronic transmission of results, a move he said was widely commended by Nigerians. He warned that any reversal of that position during harmonization would undermine public trust.
He also referenced assurances previously given by the INEC Chairman, who indicated that electronic transmission of results is automated and capable of delivering results while maintaining the original upload time, even if network delays occur.
Reaffirming his position, Uzokwe stated that the Senate’s stance could jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic gains. He added that he was conveying the position of his constituents in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State, who, he said, support real-time electronic transmission of election results.
The debate over electronic transmission remains a central issue in ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s electoral framework.
