E‑Transmission Alone Cannot Guarantee Free, Fair Elections – Shehu Sani

E‑Transmission Alone Cannot Guarantee Free, Fair Elections – Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has warned that electronic transmission (e‑transmission) of election results cannot, by itself, ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria, stressing the need for strong institutions, political will, and proper enforcement of electoral laws.

Sani made the remarks during an appearance on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, where he reacted to the recent amendment of the Electoral Act by the National Assembly. Under the amendment, the Senate approved e‑transmission of results, while retaining manual collation as a backup system, a compromise that has generated widespread public debate.

According to Sani, while e‑transmission technology can improve transparency and accountability, it is not a panacea for electoral malpractice.

“Electronic transfer does not mean that we’re going to have 100% free and fair elections. There is no electoral system that those who intend to rig would not be able to circumvent. Now you have manual voting and electronic transfer of results,” Sani explained.

READ ALSO:

• Rosy Meurer Denies Snatching Churchill From Tonto Dikeh
• Gabon Suspends Social Media Over False Information, Cyber Threats
• BREAKING: Academic Activities Halted as ASUU Resumes Strike

He argued that the real determinant of credible elections is the intent and integrity of those managing the process. When authorities are genuinely committed to fairness, elections are credible. However, where manipulation is intended, loopholes will always be exploited.

Sani also highlighted vote-buying and voter inducement as major challenges. He noted that, despite laws against such practices, authorities lack the manpower to monitor every community effectively.

“You can have laws everywhere that voters should not be induced with money or material gifts, they will still do that, and we don’t have the manpower to ensure compliance in every nook and cranny,” he said.

The former lawmaker stressed that meaningful electoral reform must go beyond technology, including:

1. Political will from leaders to respect electoral outcomes
2. Strict enforcement of electoral laws
3. Independent and well-resourced institutions like INEC
4. Robust voter education and civic engagement

Experts and civil society groups have echoed Sani’s concerns, emphasizing that structural weaknesses, political interference, and poor electoral management remain major obstacles. While e‑transmission can enhance result integrity, it must be part of a comprehensive reform framework addressing all stages of the electoral process — from voter registration to result collation.

Sani’s remarks come amid national discussions on electoral reform and building public trust in Nigeria’s elections, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

E‑Transmission Alone Cannot Guarantee Free, Fair Elections – Shehu Sani