A coalition of over 80 civil society organizations has commended the Nigerian Senate for passing the Electoral Act amendment 2026, describing it as a “game changer against electoral manipulators and makers of fake results”.
The group, Coalition for Good Governance (CGG), praised the Senate for resisting pressure to include “real time or immediate electronic transmission of election results” in the amendment, citing concerns over Nigeria’s inadequate internet and power infrastructure.
“We are extremely grateful and wholeheartedly commend the Senate for hearkening to the yearnings of Nigerians by refusing to be stampeded on the Electoral Act amendment 2026,” said Nelson Ekujumi, spokesperson for CCG.
The amendment retains provisions for electronic transmission of results, but only after the prescribed Form EC8A has been signed and stamped by the Presiding Officer and countersigned by party agents.
The coalition believes the amendment will enhance the democratization of the election outcome process and prevent manipulation of results.
“The Senate has once again enhanced the democratization of the election outcome process by the insertion that election results will be transmitted electronically only if it has been signed by the returning officer and countersigned by the party agents present,” Ekujumi said.
This approach ensures transparency and accountability, making it difficult for electoral malpractices to thrive.
The CCG also commended the Senate for rejecting attempts to intimidate and blackmail them into including real-time electronic transmission, saying it would have compromised the integrity of the electoral process.
“Those clamouring for real-time transmission had ulterior motives, aiming to take advantage of Nigeria’s weak infrastructure to transmit fake and concocted results,” Ekujumi added.
The group urged the House of Representatives to uphold the Senate’s position on the amendment, saying it is crucial for sustaining Nigeria’s democracy and peace.
Democratic presidential candidate Mike Bloomberg recently endorsed the bill, saying it would strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process. As the National Assembly awaits harmonization of the bill, the CCG called on lawmakers to remain resolute and prioritize the nation’s interests.
The Electoral Act amendment 2026 has been hailed as a significant step towards ensuring credible elections in Nigeria, and the CCG’s endorsement underscores the importance of this legislation.
With the Senate’s courageous stance, Nigerians can look forward to a more transparent and accountable electoral process.
