Senate President Godswill Akpabio has publicly defended the ongoing amendments to Nigeria's Electoral Act, stating that critics are misjudging lawmakers' intentions and actions due to a misunderstanding of the legislative process. Speaking in Abuja during the unveiling of a book by Senator Effiong Bob, Akpabio clarified that the Senate did not eliminate the provision for electronic transmission of election results; instead, they questioned only the necessity for real-time transmission. This clarification comes amidst mounting criticism from various stakeholders, including significant opposition parties, who have expressed concerns over the Senate's handling of the amendment.

In light of the amendments, key stakeholders have voiced their frustration, notably the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which has urged the Senate to reinstate mandatory electronic transmission for election results as a critical transparency measure. The NBA's call underscores a broader concern among civil society groups about the integrity and credibility of Nigeria's electoral process. Akpabio's remarks reflect an effort to reassure the public and stakeholders that the legislative intentions remain aligned with democratic principles, despite the pushback from various quarters.

The controversy surrounding the amendments to the Electoral Act highlights a significant rift between lawmakers and critics who fear a rollback of electoral reforms. Considering the high stakes of Nigeria's elections, the Senate's decisions stand to impact public trust and the overall electoral landscape in the country. Akpabio's emphasis on the ongoing legislative process aims to mitigate fears but suggests ongoing tensions within the political discourse surrounding electoral integrity in Nigeria.