SUNTV GLOBAL CHANNEL REPORT
Nigeria’s political atmosphere is already heating up as preparations quietly begin for the next general elections, with renewed controversy surrounding proposed amendments to the Electoral Act.
As is often the case in Nigeria’s electoral cycle, intense political maneuvering typically starts about a year before elections. Incumbents seeking to retain power and challengers hoping to unseat them are already forging alliances, holding strategy meetings, and reconnecting with grassroots structures.
At the center of the current debate is the ongoing review of the Electoral Act 2022, now undergoing harmonisation by a joint committee of the National Assembly. The process has once again triggered widespread public suspicion, with many Nigerians questioning whether lawmakers are acting in the public interest or seeking political advantage.
A History of Constant Changes
Nigeria’s electoral laws have undergone repeated revisions since the return to democratic rule in 1999. Starting with the Electoral Act 2001, successive amendments in 2002, 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2022 have attempted to address emerging challenges.
The most recent major reform in 2022 introduced technological innovations such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and provisions for electronic transmission of results.
However, the latest proposed amendments have reignited controversy, particularly over whether electronic transmission of election results should be mandatory.
Public Protests and Deep Mistrust
Recent protests across parts of the country have focused on demands for compulsory electronic transmission of election results, with many citizens arguing that manual collation enables manipulation.
Lawmakers, however, have maintained a “hybrid” approach in the proposed amendment, leaving the decision on whether to transmit results electronically or manually at the discretion of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This provision has drawn criticism, with many Nigerians expressing deep distrust of both politicians and electoral authorities. Critics argue that despite Nigeria’s ability to process billions of digital financial transactions annually, the country still struggles to ensure transparent real-time election result transmission.
Technology vs Reality
Experts say the challenge goes beyond technology. While digital systems can handle large data volumes, elections require instant accuracy, strong cybersecurity, reliable power supply, and nationwide connectivity — all of which remain uneven in Nigeria.
Globally, only a few countries have achieved full electronic voting and real-time transmission systems. Estonia remains a leading example, while countries like India, Brazil, and Kenya use varying levels of electronic support in their electoral processes.
Across Africa, most countries still rely heavily on manual systems. Even nations known for credible elections, such as Botswana and South Africa, continue to use largely paper-based methods.
The Bigger Issue: Political Will
Analysts say the core problem is not technological capacity but political trust. Many Nigerians believe electoral credibility ultimately depends on the willingness of political actors to respect the rules.
Observers warn that no system — digital or manual — can guarantee fairness if political elites and institutions fail to act transparently.
Call for Sustained Vigilance
While recent protests highlight growing public awareness, experts caution that sustained civic engagement will be necessary to ensure credible elections.
They stress that voters, civil society organisations, and the media must continue to monitor electoral reforms closely and hold both politicians and INEC accountable.
As Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle, one message is becoming increasingly clear: the future of credible elections may depend not only on technology, but also on citizen vigilance — with everyday tools, including smartphones, playing a crucial role in safeguarding democracy.
