Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, has addressed the confusion surrounding the Senate’s recent approval of the Electoral Act amendments, clarifying that the lawmakers unanimously endorsed electronic transmission of election results, not merely a “transfer” as misreported.
Clarification Amid Public Outrage
Speaking on Channels Television’s *Politics Today*, Umeh highlighted the extensive legislative process that led to this decision, which included first and second readings, zonal public hearings, stakeholder consultations, and a joint committee report. “Legislation is a process; laws are crafted to address specific issues, not just for formality,” he stated.
Umeh explained that the amendment to Section 60 of the Electoral Act 2022, which governs election result transmission, emerged as a critical public demand, particularly following the contentious 2023 general elections that were widely disputed and litigated up to the Supreme Court.
Legal Precedents and Stakeholder Consensus
The senator noted that during the presidential election hearings, the Supreme Court ruled that electronic transmission was not explicitly provided for in existing law, leading to the dismissal of some electronically transmitted results. “To avoid future legal ambiguities, stakeholders agreed that the law must be amended to include electronic transmission, ensuring that results cannot be dismissed as ‘unknown to law’,” Umeh explained.
He confirmed that both chambers of the National Assembly worked on the amendment independently, with the House of Representatives already passing its version, which includes clear provisions for electronic transmission.
Overwhelming Support for Electronic Transmission
When the Senate discussed the bill in a closed executive session, Umeh reported that over 85% of senators supported electronic transmission. “It was common ground; even the ad hoc committee endorsed it,” he said. The only modification made was the removal of the phrase “in real time” due to concerns about potential network issues in certain areas.
Umeh clarified that confusion arose during plenary when a motion was moved to replace “transmission” with “transfer” without debate. “The only term that was expunged was ‘real time’ because of network challenges. Transmission itself was never contested,” he asserted.
### The Implications of Terminology
Umeh argued that substituting “transmission” with “transfer” would undermine the provision’s intent. “You cannot discuss transferring to the IReV portal without electronic transmission. How can you transfer results to a portal if it is not done electronically?” he queried, affirming that the Senate never intended to revert to the wording of the 2022 Electoral Act, which referred solely to “transfer.”
Public Reaction and Legislative Integrity
Addressing the public’s outcry, Umeh acknowledged that the Senate’s plenary outcome did not align with what had been debated and agreed upon. “Nigerians expect a more credible and transparent electoral process,” he stated, reiterating that the legislative process is not yet complete, as the Senate has not yet adopted its Votes and Proceedings from the sitting.
“We have not finished. The Votes and Proceedings have not been approved; only approved proceedings go to the conference committee for harmonisation,” he clarified.
Looking Ahead: Harmonisation Process
Umeh expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved during the harmonisation process with the House of Representatives. “When we return to approve the Votes and Proceedings, we will ensure it accurately reflects our discussions. I believe the consensus on electronic transmission will be reinstated,” he stated.
On Tuesday, the Senate passed the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, retaining the current provision allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transfer results as deemed fit, rather than making electronic transmission mandatory. The amendments also included shortened election timelines, the adoption of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the establishment of a conference committee to harmonise the bill.
Conclusion
As the legislative process continues, the clarity provided by Senator Umeh serves to reassure the public that the Senate remains committed to ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. The discussions surrounding electronic transmission of results are crucial in addressing the concerns of citizens and enhancing the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
