The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced strong opposition to a controversial clause in the Electoral Act Bill that allows for the manual transmission of election results. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, expressed concerns that this practice could undermine the transparency of the electoral process and thus compromise the integrity of the upcoming 2027 general elections. The party views the proposed manual backup as a significant setback to the democratic process, which should ideally prioritize transparency and accountability.

The proposal for manual transmission follows a tense session in the Senate, where the electronic transmission of results was initially favored. However, amidst political maneuvering, the Senate decided to retain a manual collation system as a contingency, a decision that has sparked backlash from opposition parties like the PDP. Ememobong criticized the House of Representatives for abandoning what he described as its earlier pro-people stance, asserting that aligning with the Senate’s controversial provision could erode the trust citizens place in the electoral system.

The legislative debate surrounding the Electoral Act reflects deeper concerns in Nigeria about election integrity and public confidence in democratic institutions. As political factions clash over the electoral framework, the PDP's call resonates with many Nigerians who value fair and transparent elections. The outcome of this ongoing debate will significantly impact the political landscape leading to the 2027 elections, influencing public perception and voter turnout.