Nigeria’s Senate has approved the electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) results portal, while allowing manual collation as a fallback where technology fails.
The decision, taken on Tuesday during an emergency plenary session in Abuja, marks a reversal of the Senate’s earlier rejection of electronic transmission in the ongoing review of the Electoral Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2026.
Under the amended provision, presiding officers at polling units may transmit results electronically to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV) after the result sheet, known as Form EC8A, has been completed, signed and stamped. Where electronic transmission proves impossible due to network or technical challenges, the manually completed EC8A form will serve as the primary basis for collation and declaration of results.
Reading the revised clause to lawmakers before it was put to a vote, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the amendment was designed to accommodate both transparency and operational realities.
“The clause provides that presiding officers shall electronically transmit the results from polling units to INEC’s IReV portal,” he said, “provided that if electronic transmission fails and it becomes difficult to transmit the results, Form EC8A will be the primary means of collation.”
The amendment was introduced by the Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Monguno, who explained that a further review of Clause 60(3) showed the need for changes to avoid disputes and ensure credible elections.
“This amendment is to bring our laws in line with the wishes and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” Mr Monguno told the chamber.
The motion was seconded by the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, and was approved by a majority of senators through a voice vote.
Proceedings briefly became tense as some lawmakers raised concerns over the wording of the amendment. At one point, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe called for individual voting, citing divisions within the chamber, but later withdrew the request to allow the legislative process to continue.
Electronic transmission of results has long been a contentious issue in Nigeria’s electoral reforms. Supporters argue it enhances transparency and reduces manipulation, while critics point to weak infrastructure in parts of the country.
The Senate says the revised clause strikes a balance between both concerns as the bill moves closer to final passage.
