By Olokuta Rofiat
Senator Seriake Dickson has said real-time electronic transmission of election results alone cannot guarantee transparent or credible elections, amid ongoing debates in the National Assembly over amendments to the Electoral Act.
Speaking during Senate deliberations, Dickson said electronic transmission could improve the process, but insisted that technology cannot fix deeper structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s electoral system.
The Bayelsa West senator stressed that credible elections depend on the integrity of electoral officials, strict compliance with the law, and the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He warned that even with real-time transmission, manipulation could still occur if institutional safeguards remain weak.
Dickson’s comments come as the Senate supports electronic transmission of results but has stopped short of making real-time upload mandatory in all circumstances.
The amended provision allows electronic transmission as the primary method, while permitting manual collation where there are network or technical challenges.
The amendments are expected to be harmonised with the House of Representatives’ version before being forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for assent ahead of the 2027 general elections.
