Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has insisted that the Senate approved electronic transmission of election results in real time, contrary to media reports suggesting otherwise.
Speaking at a media briefing, Abaribe emphasized that the Senate deliberately chose the word “transmission” to avoid ambiguity, unlike the “transfer” mentioned in the 2022 Electoral Act.
Abaribe explained that the Senate’s decision followed extensive consultations with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and civil society organisations (CSOs).
He added that the Senate President had confirmed the approval of electronic transmission of results during the plenary session.
However, there seems to be a contradiction, as the Senate Chief Whip and Deputy Senate President supported retaining the term “transfer” as in the existing Act. The Senate has not yet adopted the Votes and Proceedings, a necessary step before the conference committee can harmonise the Senate and House versions of the bill.
