Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, has stressed the necessity of implementing real-time electronic transmission of election results in Nigeria. Speaking at a protest outside the National Assembly in Abuja, he urged the government to amend the Electoral Act to make this practice mandatory. Amaechi argued that the introduction of electronic transmission could significantly mitigate violence during elections, a period often marred by casualties as citizens flock to polling stations. He emphasized that this technology could potentially save lives, particularly highlighting the recurring tragedies during elections caused by political disputes and violence.

The call for electronic transmission comes at a critical juncture as discussions around the amendment to the 2027 Electoral Act intensify. Amaechi's assertions come against the backdrop of ongoing debates about whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be compelled to embrace this technology or if it should remain a discretionary choice. Many civil society groups and youth organizations support the reform, aiming to increase transparency and trust in the electoral process, while some political factions remain wary of mandatory electronic transmission, raising concerns over its feasibility and potential abuse.

Amaechi's interventions underline a significant push from various stakeholders in Nigerian society who are seeking to reform the electoral process amidst growing public dissatisfaction with past elections. His involvement in the protest reflects a broader movement advocating for election integrity and a reduction in violence, as citizens continue to demand safer and more credible electoral practices from their government. The outcome of these discussions and proposed amendments could have lasting implications on Nigeria's electoral landscape and influence public confidence in democracy.