CSO insists on mainstreaming tech in electoral law to prevent fraud in transmission

The argument that Nigerians cannot effectively use technology for elections is nothing but a convenient fraud. Every day, Nigerians across the country rely on electronic networks for bank transfers, accessing government portals, running businesses, and engaging on social media.

From urban centres to rural communities, digital transactions take place daily. With recent innovations such as 5G and other network services expanding connectivity, claiming that electronic transmission of election results is “not feasible” is either dishonest or deliberately misleading.

This narrative is not about technology. It is about control.

In one of my recent interviews with The Cabal Newspaper, I noted that the current controversy surrounding amendments to the Electoral Act reflects a long-standing determination by certain political forces to retain power through manipulation rather than popular mandate.

When lawmakers deliberately weaken or obstruct reforms that would enhance transparency, especially the electronic transmission of results, it is no longer a legislative disagreement. It is electoral corruption at its foundation.

Once electoral laws are tailored to serve selfish or personal interests, the entire process becomes compromised. A defective or ambiguous law makes transparency and accountability impossible and denies Nigerians the fundamental right to freely choose their leaders. This is why resistance to electronic result transmission is so dangerous. It keeps loopholes open for discretionary handling, manipulation during collation, and ultimately, rigging.

The warning is clear. The groundwork for compromising the 2027 elections is already being laid. When innovations meant to improve electoral credibility are deliberately blocked, it sends a strong signal that some actors are determined to create conditions for electoral manipulation. A weak electoral law breeds instability, violence, and crisis. It does not promote peace or good governance.

Civil society organizations may not be lawmakers, but their role remains critical. Advocacy, public education, and sustained pressure are essential in exposing anti-democratic manoeuvres and mobilizing Nigerians to demand better governance. While advocacy alone may struggle against entrenched political interests, silence guarantees failure.

Legislators have both a moral and constitutional duty to act in the national interest, not in the interest of a few individuals determined to control the process at all costs. The purpose of law-making is to strengthen democracy, not undermine it. Any law that blocks transparency is not neutral. It is complicit.

Nigeria does not lack technology. What we are witnessing is a deliberate resistance to credible elections.