The Nigerian Senate witnessed a tense and rowdy session on Tuesday as lawmakers clashed over a proposed amendment to the Electoral Act, specifically concerning the electronic transmission of election results from polling units.
During an emergency sitting to adopt the Votes and Proceedings of the February 4th session, the Red Chamber revisited a controversial clause that had initially excluded mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results. Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno) had moved a motion to rescind the earlier decision, prompting heated debates among senators.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read out the revised Section 60(3), but some lawmakers expressed discomfort with specific language in the amendment. Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe later called for a point of order to allow individual votes, citing divisions under Order 70, though he subsequently withdrew the motion.
“The disagreement highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s electoral process,” political analysts said, noting that electronic results transmission remains a key demand of civil society groups and voters alike.
The session underscores growing calls for legislative reforms aimed at modernizing election management and promoting accountability across Nigeria’s voting system. Observers warn that unresolved disputes over electronic transmission could impact future electoral credibility if not adequately addressed.
