Electoral Bill: Your Position Can Discourage Popular Participation, NGE Tells Senate

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep concern over the controversy surrounding the Senate’s position on the electronic transmission of election results ahead of the 2027 general election, saying it has potential to discourage popular participation.

In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and jointly signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild warned that the current uncertainty was creating room for doubt and mistrust in the electoral process among Nigerians.

The controversy stemmed from the Senate’s adoption of provisions in the proposed Electoral Law 2026 that allow for the transmission of election results without making it mandatory and immediate.

The NGE noted that the position runs contrary to the widely held expectations of most Nigerians and many lawmakers.

“The resulting public outrage has pitted citizens against the Senate and could potentially discourage voter participation in future elections,” the guild said.

The Guild said at a time when Nigerians were calling for mandatory and immediate transmission of election results from polling units to central collation centres—and as countries worldwide adopt electronic transmission to enhance transparency—the Senate’s stance represented a missed opportunity to strengthen accountability in the electoral process.

“Globally, mandatory electronic transmission of election results has become a standard for improving electoral credibility and efficiency. Nigeria should not be an exception,” the statement added.

The NGE urged the National Assembly, which is set to reconvene on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to harmonise the Senate’s position with that of the House of Representatives.

The Guild emphasised that approving mandatory and immediate transmission of election results from polling units to INEC central servers and collation centres would lay a solid foundation for free and fair elections and deepen Nigeria’s democracy.

The statement highlighted the benefits of digitalising elections, noting that real-time transmission of results would enhance transparency, efficiency, and accuracy, while boosting voter confidence.

It would also streamline results management, reduce disputes, minimise controversies, and significantly curb electoral fraud.

“Electoral reforms, when combined with digital innovation, strengthen democratic processes and boost public trust. Making the transmission of election results mandatory and immediate is therefore critical to achieving credible elections in Nigeria,” the NGE said.

The Guild concluded by urging lawmakers to adopt progressive electoral practices, stressing: “Nigerians are watching the National Assembly closely on this issue. Anything short of mandatory and immediate transmission of election results will be out of step with contemporary electoral standards. Such a measure will not only enhance free and fair elections but also give Nigerians confidence that their votes truly count.”