Senate Makes Electronic Result Transmission Discretionary

The Nigerian Senate, led by Opeyemi Bamidele, has clarified its decision to make the electronic transmission of election results discretionary under Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Bill 2026. This decision was based on the stark realities of the country's power and internet infrastructure, which do not guarantee reliable real-time transmission of election results.

Bamidele noted that while electronic transmission could enhance trust in democratic institutions, Nigeria's current broadband coverage and internet penetration rates—44.53% of the population by 2025—are insufficient. He cited data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) indicating that Nigeria ranks 85th in mobile network reliability and 129th in fixed broadband reliability globally.

Additionally, approximately 85 million Nigerians lack access to grid electricity, further complicating the feasibility of real-time electronic transmission. The Senate's decision reflects a cautious approach to avoid exacerbating the country's existing infrastructural challenges.