Electoral Reform Act: Group calls for immediate amendment to protect real-time results transmission

…describes signed Electoral Reform Act as setback to democracy

A Civil Society Organisation, FixPolitics Initiative, has described the new Electoral Reform Act, as a setback for Nigeria’s democratic progress, calling for its immediate reversal.

The Group also urged the National Assembly to initiate amendments that would make real-time electronic transmission of results mandatory and non-negotiable.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the Executive Director of the organisation, Mr. Anthony Ubani, alleged that the National Assembly ignored widespread public opposition and passed a version of the bill that weakened provisions for real-time electronic transmission of election results.

Mr. Ubani said the decision contradicts the demands of most civil society organisations and election observers who had consistently called for greater transparency in the electoral process.

“Real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units is not a luxury. It is a democratic safeguard,” he stated. “It protects results at the point where they are most vulnerable, reduces human interference, and builds public confidence. To weaken it is to weaken trust.”

According to Mr. Ubani, the new law represents a regression at a time when Nigerians are demanding stronger safeguards for their votes.

Mr. Ubani further warned that declining public trust in elections could have serious implications for democratic stability.

The group demanded urgent corrective action from lawmakers, urging the National Assembly to initiate amendments that would make real-time electronic transmission of results mandatory and non-negotiable.

“Power in a democracy is granted by citizens and sustained by their trust,” Ubani said. “When leaders ignore the clear voice of the people, they erode the very legitimacy that gives them authority.”

While expressing disappointment, the group emphasized that its call was not for unrest but for lawful civic engagement. It urged Nigerians to remain peaceful, vigilant, and committed to democratic principles while pressing for accountability.