Nigeria Fully Equipped for Real-Time Election Results Transmission, Analyst Declares
Public affairs analyst Shehu Mahdi has emphatically stated that Nigeria possesses the complete and necessary capacity to implement real-time electronic transmission of election results. Mahdi made these remarks during a recent appearance on Arise Television, where he actively participated in the ongoing national debate surrounding the electronic transmission of results.
Senate Amendment and Analyst's Critique
His comments come just days after the Nigerian Senate amended Section 60 of the Electoral Act. This amendment now permits presiding officers at polling units to electronically upload results directly to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Results Viewing Portal, known as IREV. Reacting to this legislative development, Mahdi criticized what he described as undue hesitation and reluctance by lawmakers.
He argued forcefully that Nigeria already has the resources, financial capacity, manpower, and technological infrastructure required to fully support live transmission of results without further delay. “The Senate is toying with the future of Nigeria. We have the manpower, financial capacity, and infrastructure to enable real-time transmission. Enough of the pretence and breach of the law,” Mahdi declared during the television interview.
Democratic Progress and International Image at Stake
Mahdi further elaborated that delays in fully embracing and implementing electronic transmission are not only unnecessary but are actively harmful to the country’s democratic progress and its international reputation. He posed a critical question to the legislative body, challenging their perceived reservations.
“If the Senate believes Nigeria is not ready for live transmission, when will it be ready? The country is more than prepared,” Mahdi stated unequivocally. He emphasized that continued postponement undermines public trust and electoral integrity.
Evidence of Technological Readiness
To substantiate his claim of national preparedness, Mahdi pointed to the widespread and routine use of advanced digital platforms by the government itself. He cited the regular use of platforms like Zoom for conducting high-level official meetings by both the Federal Executive Council and the National Assembly as clear, practical evidence of Nigeria's existing technological readiness and capability.
“A country that conducts high-level meetings via Zoom is adequately prepared for live transmission of election results,” he added, drawing a direct parallel between existing governmental tech adoption and the proposed electoral process enhancement. His argument underscores a belief that the foundational digital infrastructure is already in place and being utilized at the highest levels of governance.
