The passage of the Electronic Transmission Bill today was heralded as a significant step forward in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. However, rather than bringing hope, it has left many citizens with concerns about the true intent behind the bill.

Originally presented as a measure to ensure transparency in elections through the real-time transmission of results, the bill appears to contain troubling loopholes. Most concerning is the provision allowing the non-electronic transmission of results in areas with “no network coverage.” This clause undermines the very essence of what electronic transmission was meant to achieve.

Let us ask a simple, but crucial question: Where in Nigeria today do people not use mobile phones?

From bustling cities to remote villages, Nigerians use mobile networks every day. In markets, farms, and homes, people communicate through phone calls, text messages, and internet data. It is hard to imagine a part of Nigeria so disconnected that mobile networks are unavailable. The claim that vast regions lack network coverage has become an excuse — not a fact.

So why, then, do some lawmakers celebrate the passage of this bill? It’s not because they believe it strengthens Nigeria’s democracy, but because it introduces loopholes that could pave the way for manipulation. Allowing exceptions to the rule creates a fertile ground for interference, delays, and the potential for rewriting the people’s will.

The purpose of electronic transmission was to eliminate human interference in the election process, not to create new opportunities for manipulation.

In Abia North, we refuse to accept that large parts of the country are still in the “dark ages” of connectivity. We are committed to using innovative solutions like internet finders, connectivity mapping, and digital monitoring tools to demonstrate that every polling unit can be connected, and every vote can be transmitted. Transparency is achievable — but only if the intent behind the process is honest.

Democracy cannot be protected by provisions that weaken accountability. It is safeguarded by systems that make rigging and manipulation impossible.

The world is watching Nigeria. Citizens are watching their leaders. And history will judge whether this bill truly strengthens our democracy or quietly facilitates its manipulation.

Abia North will stand firmly on the side of transparency, technology, and the genuine will of the people. We will introduce internet finders across the state to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

Chief Dr. Emeka Kalu
Chairman, ECK Foundation