The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has condemned the decision of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to make real time electronic transmission of election results optional.
In a press statement sent to Truth Live News International and signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Dan Osa Ogbegie Esq, the party described the move as a direct threat to electoral transparency and democratic integrity.
According to the statement, Nigeria has endured the consequences of flawed electoral processes for years, resulting in poor governance, insecurity, economic hardship, and weakened public institutions. The party argued that the credibility of elections is central to national stability and that any attempt to weaken safeguards around result transmission undermines public confidence in democracy.
The Edo PDP stated that real time transmission of results from polling units helps prevent manipulation at collation centres and ensures that outcomes reflect the actual votes cast. It warned that making the process optional creates room for abuse and reverses progress made in strengthening electoral systems.
The statement referenced reforms introduced during the administrations of former Presidents Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan, noting that those periods witnessed efforts to improve the independence of the electoral body and enhance public trust in elections.
The party contrasted this with what it described as a decline in electoral integrity under the ruling All Progressives Congress, alleging a growing culture of impunity and reduced transparency.
It called on the Senate to reconsider and reverse the decision. The Edo PDP also urged civil society organisations, professional bodies, the media, and the international community to monitor developments closely and defend the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.
The party maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on transparent, free, and fair elections that accurately reflect the will of the people.
Truth Live News International will continue to follow reactions from stakeholders and developments at the National Assembly.
