Former Minister Solomon Dalung has thrown his support behind the planned Occupy NASS protest organized by human rights lawyer Femi Falana and former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, aimed at opposing the Senate’s decision to remove electronic transmission of election results from the Electoral Act.
The protest, which is expected to draw civil society organizations, activists, and concerned citizens to the National Assembly complex, represents a growing pushback against what organizers describe as an attempt to undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Dalung, who served as Minister of Youth and Sports under the previous administration, joined the chorus of voices condemning the Senate’s move to strip the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the power to electronically transmit results directly from polling units.
“This is a fight for the soul of our democracy,” Dalung said in a statement. “Electronic transmission of results is crucial for transparency and credibility in our elections. Any attempt to remove this provision is a step backward and must be resisted by all Nigrians who believe in free and fair elections.”
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The controversial Senate amendment has sparked widespread criticism from electoral reform advocates who argue that electronic transmission reduces opportunities for result manipulation and enhances public confidence in the electoral process. Critics suspect the change is designed to create loopholes that could facilitate election rigging.
Falana and Ezekwesili, both prominent civil society figures, have called on Nigerians to peacefully converge on the National Assembly to demand the reinstatement of electronic transmission provisions. The activists argue that the technology has proven effective in recent governorship elections and represents international best practice.
Senate leadership has defended the amendment, citing concerns about internet connectivity in rural areas and the need for backup procedures. However, opponents counter that INEC should have discretion to use electronic transmission where feasible while maintaining alternative methods for areas with connectivity challenges.
The planned protest is scheduled for later this week, with organizers emphasizing their commitment to peaceful demonstration and urging security agencies to respect citizens’ constitutional right to assembly and expression.
The controversy over electronic transmission has become a flashpoint in Nigeria’s ongoing electoral reform debates, with many viewing it as a litmus test for the country’s commitment to credible elections.