Open Alliance has criticised the decision of the 10th Nigerian Senate to step down the use of electronic transmission of election results for the 2027 general elections and subsequent polls, describing it as a setback to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
In a recent statement, the civic group said the move undermines years of efforts aimed at strengthening electoral transparency, credibility and public trust in the country’s democratic process.
According to the organisation, electronic transmission of results serves as a critical safeguard against electoral manipulation, result tampering and post-election disputes.
It warned that limiting or removing the mechanism could reopen longstanding vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s electoral system, which have historically contributed to public distrust, prolonged litigation and political instability.
Open Alliance stated that at a time when citizens are demanding greater accountability and technology offers viable solutions for enhancing electoral integrity, the Senate’s decision sends a negative signal to voters, election observers and the international community.
The group emphasised that electronic transmission of results is not a partisan matter but a democratic necessity that protects votes across political, ethnic and religious divides.
It urged lawmakers to focus on strengthening the system, addressing logistical challenges and empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct credible elections.
The organisation called on the Senate to immediately reverse the decision and recommit to reforms that promote free, fair and transparent elections. It also appealed to the National Assembly to engage civil society groups, election experts and citizens in consultations aimed at improving the integrity of the 2027 general elections.
Open Alliance maintained that Nigeria’s democracy can only flourish when the electoral process is transparent, secure and trusted by the electorate, warning that any action to the contrary could weaken the foundation of the country’s democratic system.
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