politicsliberal
Senate Switches Gears: Real‑Time Vote Uploads Back on Track
Nigeria, AbujaTuesday, February 10, 2026
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Senate members overturned an earlier ruling that would have required election results to be transmitted online immediately after counting. The original rule, aimed at curbing fraud and manipulation, was rejected under pressure from workers, activists, and lawyers.
Key Events
- Protests Outside Parliament – Demonstrators urged the Senate to adopt the House’s rule, which had already been passed.
- Historical Issues – Nigeria’s elections have long struggled with vote‑buying, violence, and opaque counting processes.
- Manual Counting – Despite biometric voters and past online uploads, the current system remains largely manual, raising concerns about fairness.
- Upcoming 2027 Election – President Tinubu’s potential re‑run heightens the demand for transparent results.
Stakeholder Perspectives
| Group | Position |
|---|---|
| Senators | Cited poor internet connectivity in some regions, making real‑time uploads impractical. |
| Civil Groups | Argued that refusing to enforce uploads adds uncertainty and undermines trust. |
| Bar Association | Warned that the initial vote could spark disputes and erode confidence in elections. |
| Labour Union | Threatened nationwide strikes or boycotts if the clause remains absent, citing potential mass action before, during, and after the election. |
Next Steps
- Joint Committee Formation – Both chambers will collaborate to unify the electoral act.
- Approval Process – The revised act will be sent to President Tinubu for final approval.
- Goal – Restore public confidence in Nigeria’s voting process through clearer, more reliable result transmission.
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