By Asile Abel
Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, has called for the mandatory electronic transmission of election results to enhance transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Mandatory electronic transmission would reduce human interference, minimize result manipulation, and boost public confidence in the electoral system
Jega emphasized that adopting technology-driven solutions is critical to addressing persistent challenges in the nation’s elections.
Jega, a respected figure in Nigeria’s electoral history, argued that mandatory electronic transmission would reduce human interference, minimize result manipulation, and boost public confidence in the electoral system.
“The technology exists, and we must leverage it to ensure every vote counts,” he stated, citing the success of electronic systems in other democracies.
The former INEC boss also advocated for part-time legislators to reduce governance costs and proposed that the INEC chairman’s appointment should be independent of the presidency to ensure impartiality. These reforms, he argued, would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and curb electoral malpractices.
The technology exists, and we must leverage it to ensure every vote counts
Jega’s comments come amid ongoing debates about electoral reforms, with Nigeria preparing for future elections. His call aligns with earlier sentiments expressed in 2023, when the Nigerian Senate explored similar proposals to unbundle INEC and enforce electronic result transmission.
Stakeholders have welcomed Jega’s advocacy, with many urging swift legislative action to implement these reforms. As Nigeria grapples with electoral challenges, Jega’s recommendations could pave the way for a more transparent and accountable democratic process.
