Abaribe Reaffirms Senate Approval of Electronic Transmission of Election Results

The Senate on Thursday moved to calm political and market anxieties by reaffirming that it approved electronic transmission of election results, not their transfer, under the ongoing review of Nigeria’s electoral framework.

Speaking at a media briefing at the National Assembly, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe said the distinction between transmission and transfer is deliberate, important, and central to legal certainty.

He explained that the Senate’s position followed extensive consultations with the Independent National Electoral Commission and civil society organisations, reflecting a reform process driven by consensus and institutional trust.

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According to Abaribe, a joint committee of the National Assembly held multiple retreats with stakeholders before both chambers agreed on real time electronic transmission of results as a pillar of electoral credibility.

He added that an ad hoc Senate committee reviewed the report in a closed executive session, where lawmakers unanimously endorsed electronic transmission during plenary.

Despite this, controversy emerged after plenary because the Votes and Proceedings have not been adopted, a procedural step required before harmonisation with the House of Representatives can occur.

Until then, the conference committee cannot meet, prolonging uncertainty around a reform closely watched by investors and development partners.

The debate intensified during clause by clause consideration when lawmakers retained the word transfer, as contained in the 2022 Electoral Act, following arguments by Senate leadership.

Abaribe insists the legislative process is still ongoing, urging the public to allow due process to deliver clarity, stability, and confidence nationwide economically.