The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged the National Assembly to reverse the Senate’s position on electronic transmission of election results.
The call followed a decision taken at the NBA National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Maiduguri, Borno State, on February 5, 2026.
At the meeting, NEC adopted a report presented by the NBA President, Max Afam Osigwe, SAN.
Earlier, the Senate rejected a proposed amendment to Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Amendment Bill.
The amendment sought to compel presiding officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transmit results electronically.
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Specifically, results were to be uploaded in real time to the INEC Result Viewing (IREV) portal.
This would occur immediately after Form EC8A was signed and certified at polling units.
However, the Senate retained the existing provision of the Electoral Act.
That provision allows results to be transmitted “in a manner prescribed by the Commission.”
According to NEC, the wording gives too much discretion to INEC officials.
As a result, the Council said the law leaves room for manipulation and disputes.
Furthermore, NEC warned that the provision weakens electoral transparency.
The NBA stressed that credible elections are the foundation of democracy.
It added that electronic transmission should be mandatory, not optional.
Consequently, NEC urged lawmakers to revisit and pass the amendment.
The Association said clear legal backing would protect votes and boost public trust.
Finally, the NBA reaffirmed its commitment to electoral reform advocacy.
