Senate Reconvenes as Outrage Grows Over Electronic Result Transmission

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

The Senate will hold an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 9, following widespread backlash over amendments to the Electoral Act, especially the decision to drop mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio directed lawmakers to reconvene despite an ongoing recess, underscoring the urgency surrounding the controversial bill ahead of the 2027 general election.

Although the official notice did not state the purpose of the recall, sources said the session is to approve legislative proceedings and clear the way for the conference committee to continue work on the Electoral Act amendments. 

The meeting may begin behind closed doors due to rising political tension.

The Senate’s position has drawn sharp criticism from prominent Nigerians including former Senate President David Mark, Femi Falana, Oby Ezekwesili, Pat Utomi, and several civic leaders, who insist that electronic transmission of results is vital for transparency and credible elections.

Mark argued that the law should mandate real-time transmission and allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to handle implementation, rather than weaken safeguards over infrastructure concerns.

Civil society groups and activists under the Movement for Credible Elections have rejected the amendment, calling it a setback that could reopen the door to manipulation. 

They warned of peaceful protests if the provision is not restored.

Youth groups and diaspora organisations also expressed concern, saying removing clear legal backing for electronic transmission undermines public trust, particularly among young voters.

The Nigeria Labour Congress added pressure, demanding an unambiguous mandate for real-time transmission and warning of possible mass action or even election boycotts if transparency is not guaranteed.

Observers say the emergency sitting could shape the future of electoral reforms and determine whether Nigeria strengthens or weakens confidence in its democratic process ahead of 2027.