Amended Electoral Act will ensure every vote counts, says Akpabio
Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio asserts that the recently amended Electoral Act will enhance the integrity of elections and ensure that every vote counts by introducing electronic transmission of results.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed confidence in the newly signed Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment), stating that it will resolve long-standing issues of vote manipulation in Nigeria's electoral process. According to him, the law addresses significant concerns raised by the populace regarding election integrity and introduces vital provisions aimed at enhancing transparency and security in future elections. This legislative change is positioned as a significant step in fostering trust in the democratic process.
Speaking during a press briefing following the signing ceremony at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Akpabio highlighted that this amendment marks a historic moment in Nigeria’s electoral regulations as it officially recognizes the electronic transmission of results for the first time since the country's independence in 1960. He emphasized that by mandating the electronic transmission of ballot results, the new law will facilitate quicker and more reliable reporting of results, thereby reinforcing public confidence in electoral outcomes.
Akpabio's comments suggest that the amended Act is not merely a procedural change but a transformative approach aimed at garnering the trust of the Nigerian electorate. His assertion that 'every vote will now count' signifies a commitment to a more inclusive and equitable electoral process, which could potentially alter the political landscape in Nigeria if implemented effectively. As citizens anticipate the impact of these reforms in future elections, the success of this Act will likely hinge on rigorous enforcement and the political will to adhere to its provisions.