Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the Nigerian Senate’s decision to reject mandatory electronic transmission of election results, describing it as a deliberate attempt to weaken the country’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Thursday, Obi said his commentary on electoral reforms was delayed due to the recent tragic killing of over 150 people in communities across Kwara State, calling for prayers for the victims and describing the incident as a painful reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing governance challenges.
Obi termed the Senate’s action “outrageous and shameful,” emphasizing that refusing to mandate electronic transmission removes a crucial safeguard for credible elections. He argued that disputes and controversies that marred previous elections, particularly the 2023 general election, were largely the result of the partial implementation of electronic transmission.
Obi dismissed claims of technical glitches during the 2023 polls as fabricated excuses, noting that several African countries have successfully employed electronic systems to enhance election integrity.
“Resistance to electoral reform by political leaders and the elite is dragging Nigeria backwards,” Obi said. “Rejecting measures that ensure transparency entrenches disorder and creates space for manipulation by a few who act in self-interest rather than for the country’s good.”
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Obi also cited past statements from foreign leaders who have criticized Nigeria for corruption and poor governance, warning that continued opposition to electoral reforms reinforces such negative perceptions.
He cautioned that electoral malpractices similar to those witnessed in 2023 must not be allowed to recur in 2027 and urged Nigerians to prepare to resist any attempts to undermine their democratic rights.
In a broader appeal, Obi called on the international community to closely monitor early signs of potential electoral manipulation, stressing that unchecked interference could pose serious risks to Nigeria’s democratic development and political stability.
Concluding his statement, Obi reiterated his longstanding message that a “new Nigeria” is achievable—but only if citizens collectively defend transparency, justice, and credible governance.