Okonkwo Samuel
A House of Representatives member and Deputy House Minority Whip, Hon. George Ibezimako Ozodinobi (Aja-Ajanze), has spoken on the ongoing debate surrounding the Electoral Act amendments, stressing that the direct transmission of election results from Polling Units (PUs) reflects the will and expectation of Nigerians and must not be compromised.
Ozodinobi, who represents Njikoka/Anaocha/Dunukofia Federal Constituency, said arguments that poor internet connectivity could hinder real-time result transmission are not sufficient grounds to weaken electoral reforms aimed at ensuring transparency and credibility.
The federal lawmaker expressed strong reservations about proposals that allow manual result sheets to take precedence where electronic transmission is delayed, noting that such provisions undermine the very purpose of introducing technology into elections. According to him, direct transmission of results via BVAS must remain the primary and authoritative source for declaring election outcomes, while every other record should only serve as supporting documentation, not a substitute.
According to the federal lawmaker, developments across the country already contradict such claims, noting that many rural communities often described as lacking internet access now host active POS operators who successfully process financial transactions on a daily basis.
“If financial data can be transmitted from these areas, then election results can equally be transmitted,” he said.
The House member further explained that the BVAS system can be enhanced to securely store result data offline in a tamper-proof format until internet connectivity becomes available, thereby preventing manipulation and safeguarding the integrity of polling unit results.
He also noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has viable technological options available, including partnerships with satellite internet service providers such as Starlink and similar platforms, which now offer extensive coverage across many parts of Nigeria.
Speaking on the broader implications, Ozodinobi emphasized that the issue goes beyond technology and speaks directly to public confidence in the electoral process.
“Nigerians want elections where results announced truly reflect what was recorded at the polling units. That is the clear will of the people,” he stated.
He added that, in line with the opinion of the majority of Nigerians, any polling unit where all result transmission safeguards fail should not have its result upheld.
“Where all transmission mechanisms fail, such a polling unit should be cancelled and a fresh election conducted within 24 hours. No result should be allowed to stand where transparency has been compromised,” the lawmaker said.
Ozodinobi stressed that Nigeria must continue to strengthen electoral reforms that promote accountability, noting that direct transmission of results from polling units remains one of the strongest safeguards against manipulation and post-election disputes.
