NIGERIAN EDITORS CALL ON LAWMAKERS TO MANDATE REAL-TIME ELECTION RESULTS

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has urged the National Assembly to approve mandatory and immediate electronic transmission of election results, warning that uncertainty over the issue could undermine public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, the editors expressed concern over the Senate’s position on provisions of the proposed Electoral Act, which allow for the transmission of results without making it compulsory or immediate.

According to the Guild, the Senate’s stance has already generated controversy and heightened mistrust among Nigerians, potentially discouraging voter participation in future elections.

“The uncertainty surrounding the Senate’s adoption of these provisions runs contrary to the widely held position of Nigerians and many lawmakers,” the statement said, adding that public outrage over the issue has increasingly pitched citizens against the legislature.

The editors noted that calls for mandatory, real-time transmission of election results from polling units to central collation centres have grown stronger in Nigeria, particularly as many countries have adopted electronic transmission as part of broader electoral reforms aimed at improving transparency.

They described the Senate’s current position as a missed opportunity to strengthen accountability in the electoral process, warning that it could weaken ongoing efforts to deepen democratic governance and ensure credible elections.

“As the Senate reconvenes on February 10 to harmonise its position with that of the House of Representatives, the National Assembly still has an opportunity to uphold the highest standards of electoral integrity,” the statement said.

The Guild argued that mandatory electronic transmission of results has become a global standard for enhancing electoral credibility, efficiency, and transparency, and said Nigeria should not lag behind.

According to the editors, real-time digital transmission of election results would improve accuracy, reduce disputes, minimise post-election controversies, and significantly curb electoral fraud.

They added that electoral reforms anchored on digital innovation are critical to boosting public confidence in democratic institutions.

“Nigerians are watching the National Assembly closely,” the statement said. “Anything short of mandatory and immediate transmission of election results would be out of step with contemporary and progressive electoral practices.”

The statement was signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh.