The Nigerian Senate has defended its decision to make electronic transmission of election results discretionary in the proposed Electoral Bill 2026.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the amendment followed empirical data and broad consultations with stakeholders in the communications and power sectors.
The controversial Clause 60(3) had proposed mandatory real-time upload of polling unit results to the Independent National Electoral Commission portal.
However, the Senate revised the clause, removing the words “real time” and allowing flexibility where internet connectivity fails, with manual forms serving as backup.
Bamidele cited figures from the Nigerian Communications Commission, showing broadband coverage at about 70 per cent and internet penetration below 45 per cent in 2025.
He also referenced the Speedtest Global Index, ranking Nigeria low in mobile and fixed broadband reliability compared to several other countries.
According to him, weak network capacity and unstable electricity supply could undermine compulsory real-time transmission nationwide.
The lawmaker noted that over 85 million Nigerians still lack grid power, limiting the feasibility of digital-only collation in rural communities.
He argued that legislation must reflect prevailing realities, warning that rigid provisions could trigger disputes and instability during elections.
The amendment has sparked protests from opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, who insist on full electronic transparency.
