Real-Time E-Transmission of Results and Its Impact on the 2027 General Elections in Nigeria

Abstract

In early February 2026, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria passed the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill 2026, but reported to have rejected a proposed amendment that would have mandated real-time electronic transmission of polling unit results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing (IReV) portal immediately after voting. Instead, the Senate retained the status quo from the Electoral Act 2022, which allows electronic transmission only in the manner prescribed by INEC, without a specific requirement for real-time uploads from polling units. Critics argue this decision weakens electoral transparency and may undermine public confidence in the 2027 general elections. This brief examines the legal background, assesses the impacts of the Senate’s decision, and offers legislative recommendations to strengthen electoral integrity. To enhance transparency and public trust in future elections, the National Assembly especially the Senate and its Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission and Electoral Matters may wish to consider the following: i. Revise Section 60 (or its replacement clause) to explicitly mandate real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units to the IReV portal, subject to: defined timelines (e.g., within 60–120 minutes after polling ends) and technical allowances for network coverage challenges, with clear fallback protocols. ii. Strengthen sanctions against presiding officers and officials who fail to comply with real-time transmission requirements — e.g., fines, suspension, or disqualification from future electoral roles.