Nigeria: Electoral Act - Akpabio Summons Emergency Sitting, Notable Nigerians Kick, NLC Warns
Nigeria's Senate President has called for an emergency session following widespread criticism of amendments to the Electoral Act concerning electronic transmission of results.
In response to backlash surrounding the recent amendments to the Electoral Act, Nigeria's Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has convened an emergency meeting to address the controversial changes. The summit is scheduled for February 9 and aims to expedite legislative actions on the amendments that have drawn significant criticism from various quarters, including notable public figures and civil society organizations.
Prominent Nigerians, including former Senate President David Mark and prominent activist Femi Falana, have voiced their opposition to the Senate's decision to reject the electronic transmission of election results. These reactions reflect a broader concern among the public and stakeholders about the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. They argue that the rejection of electronic methods compromises transparency and could lead to manipulation during elections.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has also weighed in, urging the Senate to provide a clear directive empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission to transmit and collect results electronically in real-time. This demand highlights the growing expectation for modernization in Nigeriaβs electoral processes, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and efficiency in the democratic system. The emergency session summoned by Akpabio could prove crucial in shaping the future of electoral reforms in the country.