Kimpact Development Initiative raises concern over Senate’s rejection of e-transmission
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By Perpetua Onuegbu
Abuja, Feb. 5, 2026 (NAN) Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has expressed disappointment over the rejection of certain provisions critical to strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence in the electoral process.
The Executive Director, KDI, Bukola Idowu, who stated this on Thursday in Abuja, called for more transparency, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Idowu said that the senate’s decision not to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory had generated significant public debate.
“The absence of clearer statutory obligations may continue to leave room for differing interpretations and operational discretion.
“This development raises concerns about preparedness for credible elections in 2027,” he said.
According to him, confidence in electoral outcomes is shaped not only by procedures, but by the visibility and predictability of those procedures to ordinary citizens.
“Strengthening transparency provisions is therefore not merely a technical adjustment; it is an investment in long-term democratic credibility,” he said.
The executive director also noted with concern the senate’s decision to remove the proposed 10-year disqualification for individuals convicted of vote buying.
“Vote buying remains one of the most corrosive threats to democratic integrity in Nigeria, distorting voter choice, commercialising the franchise and undermining the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.
“Sanctions for electoral crimes must be proportionate to the harm they inflict and capable of serving as effective deterrents.
“Additionally, the reduction in the statutory timeline for issuing election notices from 360 days to 180 days raises further concerns.
“Adequate preparation time is fundamental to the successful conduct of large-scale elections,” Idowu stated.
He noted that the senate’s position differed from that of the House of Representatives, which adopted provisions aimed at strengthening electoral transparency, accountability and deterrence against malpractice.
“As preparations gradually begin toward the 2027 general elections, the legal framework governing those elections must not only function effectively, but also inspire confidence across political divides and demographic groups, especially among young voters whose participation remains essential to democratic vitality.
“KDI reiterates its commitment to constructive engagement with lawmakers, electoral institutions, civil society and citizens in advancing reforms that enhance transparency, accountability and institutional trust.
“Electoral reform is an evolving process and sustained dialogue remains essential to ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic systems continue to mature, in line with public expectations,” he said.(NAN)
