INEC calls for a simplified version of the Electoral Act, urging clear language and clarity on real-time result transmission ahead of 2027 elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged the Nigerian government to simplify the recently amended Electoral Act to make it easier for citizens to understand ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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INEC Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan, made the call during a citizens’ town hall meeting organised by the Civil Society Network on Election Integrity and the Electoral Act in Abuja on Sunday.
According to Amupitan, Nigeria needs legislation written in clear and simple language to enable every citizen to comprehend the provisions of the law.
“We have gone through the Electoral Act from beginning to end and examined some contentious areas, especially in a country that is highly diverse,” he said.
“What Nigeria needs is simple legislation, written in simple language, whereby it will be possible for every Nigerian to understand and appreciate the provisions of every section.”
Addressing concerns over real-time transmission of election results, Amupitan noted that the key challenge lies in defining what constitutes “real time” and ensuring adequate network coverage nationwide.
He cited the recent FCT area council elections, where results from five area councils were transmitted promptly, but those from Kabi ward were delayed until the following day due to network and communication challenges.
“I don’t see the issue of transmission as a problem; the problem is the adequacy of the network we have,” he said, adding that even in the FCT, real-time transmission was hindered by coverage limitations.
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The remarks come amid ongoing debates about electoral reforms and technological deployment as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 elections.
