Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has renewed calls for real-time electronic transmission of election results, arguing that claims of poor network coverage in some parts of Nigeria are no longer acceptable.
Obi made the statement on Tuesday following his participation in the “Occupy National Assembly” protest over the Electoral Act amendment. Titled “Identifying with the People Peacefully for Electoral Integrity,” the statement explained that his involvement was aimed at pressing for urgent reforms to protect the credibility of Nigerian elections.
“Yesterday, February 9th, I participated in a peaceful protest at the National Assembly to demand urgent electoral reforms that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people,” Obi said.
He emphasised that the protesters’ demands were “clear and non-negotiable,” insisting that public office holders must emerge through transparent processes.
“Anyone seeking to hold titles such as Honourable, Distinguished, or Excellency must emerge through a transparent and honourable process,” Obi said.
Obi also called for stricter enforcement of eligibility requirements for political office, stating that aspirants must present verifiable records of their primary, secondary, and tertiary education, alongside meeting all constitutional requirements such as age and qualifications. Candidates must also subject themselves to open campaigns, public scrutiny, and debates as required by law.
Regarding the transmission of election results, Obi insisted that electronic real-time transmission is central to credible elections.
“Most importantly, election results must be transmitted electronically and in real time to protect the people’s mandate and eliminate manipulation,” he said.
He dismissed concerns about limited network infrastructure, noting that financial institutions already operate nationwide through secure digital systems for transactions and tax collection.
“Claims that certain states lack network coverage are no longer acceptable. Financial institutions operate nationwide through secure digital networks to conduct transactions and collect taxes on a daily basis,” Obi said.
He further urged Nigerian youths to sustain pressure on lawmakers, adding, “As the agitation continues, I urge our youth, who turned out in large numbers, to remain steadfast and not relent until the necessary reforms are achieved.”
