Peter Obi has criticised the Senate’s decision to throw out a bill that would have made the electronic transmission of election results mandatory, warning that the move could further erode confidence in Nigeria’s democracy as the 2027 general elections approach.
Reacting to the development, the former presidential candidate said the decision came at a particularly painful moment for the country, as Nigerians are still mourning the loss of more than 150 lives in a recent tragedy in Kwara State.
According to Obi, periods of national grief should prompt leaders to pause and seriously reflect on the quality of governance and the worth placed on human life. Instead, he noted, the country is being confronted with actions that deepen uncertainty about its future.
The former Anambra State governor argued that rejecting electronic transmission of results only fuels public suspicion about the electoral process. He recalled the controversies that trailed the 2023 general elections, insisting that the incomplete use of available technology contributed to confusion, disputes, and widespread loss of trust. In his view, embracing transparent systems would help prevent a repeat of such tensions.
Obi’s Comparisons
Obi also drew comparisons with other African nations that have adopted electronic result transmission to strengthen the credibility of their elections. He warned that Nigeria risks falling behind if it continues to resist reforms that promote openness and fairness, stressing that the country’s challenges are not due to a lack of ideas but a reluctance to implement meaningful change.
He cautioned that blocking transparent electoral processes serves the interests of a few while undermining the collective future of the nation.
Obi urged leaders to prioritise building an electoral system that is clear, orderly, and trusted by citizens, adding that Nigerians may no longer tolerate the practices associated with past elections.
He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and committed to peaceful, lawful actions in defence of democracy, while also calling on the international community to closely observe developments that could threaten credible elections in Nigeria.