Usman Bugaje Senate Allegation warns blocking real-time election results is a ploy for rigging, urging accountability and transparency in Nigeria
Islamic scholar and political activist Dr Usman Bugaje accused the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday of deliberately blocking mandatory electronic transmission of election results to give certain political actors an undue advantage.
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The remarks were made in Lagos during a live interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show.
Bugaje warned that claims about the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) capacity to transmit results electronically are excuses designed to undermine the transparency of the electoral process.
He said that INEC had confirmed its operational readiness and highlighted that network coverage across Nigeria is sufficient for real-time result transmission.
“This is a clear attempt to manipulate elections. You have POS devices and mobile networks even in remote areas.
INEC is capable, yet the Senate continues to block progress,” Bugaje said, emphasising that such actions could replicate irregularities witnessed in the 2023 elections.
The activist cited last year’s presidential election, noting that unexplained disruptions in result transmission affected the integrity of the process.
Bugaje urged authorities to hold accountable those responsible and implement the Electoral Act amendment, which mandates real-time electronic reporting of votes.
Bugaje’s comments have reignited debate over Nigeria’s electoral reforms. The House of Representatives has already endorsed mandatory electronic transmission, while the Senate remains resistant.
Analysts suggest that full implementation of the amendment could increase public confidence and prevent manipulation in future elections.
Also read: Bugaje Accuses Akpabio’s Senate of Election Manipulation
The political activist concluded by calling for urgent oversight, stating that transparent result reporting is essential to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent repeat electoral malpractice.
