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CDHR slams Nigerian Senate for rejecting amendment on mandatory electronic transmission of results, calling it a blow to democracy and electoral integrity.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the Nigerian Senate’s decision to reject an amendment that sought to make electronic transmission of election results mandatory.
In a statement jointly signed by CDHR National President, Comrade Debo Adeniran, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Deacon Jeremiah Onyibe, the group described the move as a major setback to democratic accountability and electoral transparency in Nigeria.
“Ambiguity Over Transparency”
The organisation accused lawmakers of undermining the democratic rights of Nigerians and weakening public confidence in the electoral system.
CDHR warned that the decision could expose future elections to manipulation, violence, and result falsification, especially in a country with a history of disputed polls.
Call for Legal Safeguards
Rejecting the argument that discretionary powers granted to INEC are sufficient, CDHR insisted that strong legal safeguards are essential to protect the electoral process.
The group cautioned that leaving critical reforms to administrative discretion could lead to abuse and further erode trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“Anti-Democratic and Contrary to Public Aspiration”
CDHR described the Senate’s action as anti-democratic and contrary to the aspirations of millions of Nigerians who desire transparent governance and credible leadership.
It warned that such decisions could deepen public frustration amid ongoing economic hardship, insecurity, and political exclusion.
While urging calm, the group cautioned that actions undermining electoral integrity could provoke democratic resistance, emphasizing that Nigerians have the constitutional right to defend their votes through lawful and peaceful civic engagement.
Call to Revisit the Amendment
CDHR urged the National Assembly to revisit its decision and enshrine mandatory electronic transmission of election results into law.
The group also called on civil society organisations, labour unions, student groups, and pro-democracy advocates to remain vigilant and mobilize against attempts to weaken electoral transparency.