Strengthening Legal Framework For Elections Critical To Safeguarding Democracy – Ameh

A former Chairmanof the inter party Advisor Council, IPAC, Chief Peter Ameh, has described the Senate’s recent amendment to Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill as inadequate and a setback to electoral transparency.

A statement signed by him in Abuja, says the provision permitting electronic transmission of results from polling units only “where the system does not fail” leaves room for manipulation and uncertainty.

The statement argues that the conditional nature of the amendment creates loopholes that could be exploited, especially during result collation, under the pretext of technical challenges.

According to statement, Nigerians have consistently demanded mandatory and real-time electronic transmission of results without conditions, to enhance credibility and public confidence in the electoral process.

It maintains that the revised clause does not significantly differ from the earlier provision and fails to address concerns about possible interference in the collation of results.

The statement calls on civil society organisations, the media, and other stakeholders to continue to advocate reforms that will guarantee transparent, free and fair elections.

According to the statement Chief Ameh stresses that strengthening the legal framework for elections is critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy ahead of future polls.

PR/Georgina Humphrey