The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has explained that the National Assembly approved a hybrid system of electronic and manual transmission of election results to prevent voter disenfranchisement and reduce electoral apathy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abbas said the decision was informed by Nigeria’s infrastructural challenges, particularly limited internet penetration and unstable power supply, which make it unrealistic to rely solely on real-time electronic transmission nationwide.
The Speaker made this known on Sunday while receiving the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Felix Costales, during a courtesy visit to his office at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas hosted the envoy alongside key lawmakers, including Abubakar Bichi, Wole Oke, and Jafaru Yakubu.
Abbas noted that Spain also operates a system that allows manual transmission of election results, adding that Nigeria’s approach reflects global realities.
He said, “Sometimes people exaggerate issues. Many insist on real-time electronic transmission, but anyone living in Nigeria understands the limitations of our internet services. Even in Abuja, stable connectivity is not guaranteed.”
Citing data from the Nigerian Communications Commission, Abbas disclosed that nearly 40 per cent of the country still lacks reliable internet coverage, making exclusive electronic transmission impractical.
He expressed concern over persistent voter apathy, revealing that despite the existing manual process, only about 12 to 15 per cent of registered voters usually participate in elections.
According to him, adopting a purely electronic system could further suppress participation by effectively excluding voters in areas with poor connectivity.
“If we rely solely on electronic transmission, nearly 40 per cent of the country may be unable to vote. That would not only disenfranchise millions but also result in the lowest turnout in our electoral history,” he said.
Abbas explained that the hybrid model allows flexibility, enabling electronic transmission where infrastructure permits, while manual processes serve as a fallback in underserved areas.
He added that Nigeria’s energy crisis also poses a major challenge, as electronic systems depend heavily on reliable electricity supply.
“How do you power devices and ensure stable internet nationwide on election day when electricity remains a major challenge? These are realities we cannot ignore,” he stated.
The Speaker described democracy as an evolving process, stressing that Nigeria is making gradual progress despite existing challenges.
He expressed optimism that continued international cooperation, particularly with Spain, would help strengthen legislative capacity, electoral credibility, and democratic institutions.
Earlier, Costales said his visit aimed at deepening legislative diplomacy and strengthening bilateral relations between Spain and Nigeria.
He pledged Spain’s support for Nigeria’s democratic development and electoral reforms, noting that political polarisation is a global issue that requires dialogue and consensus-building.
President Bola Tinubu recently assented to the amended Electoral Act, which formally authorises the use of both electronic and manual methods for transmitting election results, depending on infrastructure availability and operational feasibility.
The reform has sparked public debate, with supporters describing the hybrid model as pragmatic and inclusive, while critics warn that it could undermine transparency if not properly monitored.
Be the first to comment