Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep concern over the Senate’s position on the transmission of election results, saying it could undermine the credibility of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, on Monday, the guild said the Senate’s adoption of provisions in the proposed 2022 Electoral Act, allowing for non-mandatory and non-immediate transmission of election results, is contrary to the widely held position of Nigerians.
The NGE noted that this stance has sparked public outrage and could discourage voter participation in future elections, adding that it undermines efforts to deepen democratic governance and ensure credible elections.
The guild emphasised that mandatory electronic transmission of election results has become a global standard for improving electoral credibility and efficiency, and Nigeria should not be an exception.
The NGE urged the National Assembly to approve mandatory and immediate transmission of election results from polling units to the INEC central server and collation centres when it reconvenes on February 10, 2026, to harmonise its position with that of the House of Representatives.
The statement read, “The uncertainty arising from the Senate’s position runs contrary to the widely held position of most Nigerians and many lawmakers. The resulting public outrage has pitted citizens against the Senate and could potentially discourage voter participation in future elections.
“To say the least, this stance represents a missed opportunity to strengthen transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process. It undermines ongoing efforts to deepen democratic governance and ensure credible elections.
“The digitalisation of elections—anchored on real-time transmission of results—will enhance transparency, efficiency, accuracy, and voter confidence. It will also streamline election result management, reduce disputes, minimise controversies, and significantly curb electoral fraud.
“We expect that, in the harmonised provisions of the Senate and the House of Representatives, the transmission of election results from polling units to INEC central servers and collation centres will be made mandatory and immediate. Anything short of this will be out of step with contemporary and progressive electoral practices.”
