Former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Barr. Mike Igini, has declared that electronic transmission of election results is a democratic imperative, accusing political elites of frustrating its full implementation.
Speaking at a policy roundtable organised by Yiaga Africa in Abuja, Igini said real-time transmission guarantees transparency, accountability and accuracy.
He warned that public trust erodes when laws meant to ensure openness are made conditional, citing Section 60(3) of the 2026 Electoral Act.
According to him, e-transmission reduces human error, speeds up results and restores confidence in the process. He linked voter apathy to growing distrust, pointing to the 14.24 per cent turnout in the recent FCT polls as evidence that many Nigerians no longer believe their votes count.
While admitting that credible elections may not be 100 per cent technology-driven, Igini insisted they must be technologically assisted to enhance legitimacy.
He called for stronger infrastructure, robust cybersecurity and better public engagement by INEC, faulting the commission’s silence during debates over its readiness.
“The real obstacle is not the system but resistance from those who fear accountability,” he said, warning against “statute capture and sabotage.”
Igini maintained that electronic transmission remains vital to safeguarding the vote and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Earlier, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, said the roundtable was convened to deepen discussions on electoral technology and the controversy surrounding real-time transmission.
He described the National Assembly’s position as problematic, citing uncertainty over the hierarchy of transmission channels and concerns around Section 63 of the 2026 Electoral Act. He urged lawmakers to release the signed Act to clear public doubts.
Itodo warned that while electronic transmission is a potential game-changer, poor regulation and lack of transparency could deepen distrust and undermine the legitimacy of the 2027 elections.
THE SUN
