Situation Room criticises Senate over changes to Electoral Act
The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has strongly criticised the Senate for passing a version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 that removes mandatory electronic transmission of election results. The group, led by convener Yunusa Ya’u and co-conveners Celestine Odo and Mma Odi, expressed disappointment over the Senate’s decision to make real-time electronic transmission discretionary. The Situation Room warned that these changes could weaken transparency and create opportunities for manipulation. They also condemned the reduction of the election notice period, arguing it would disrupt preparations and increase disputes.
What we know
- The Senate passed the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026, removing the requirement for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results.
- Yunusa Ya’u, Celestine Odo, and Mma Odi criticised the Senate for departing from previously agreed electoral reforms.
- The Senate reduced the notice period for elections from 360 days to 180 days, which the Situation Room says will constrain INEC’s preparations.
- The group warned that these amendments could undermine transparency, credibility, and public trust in Nigeria’s elections.
- The Situation Room urged the National Assembly to restore mandatory electronic transmission and realistic timelines during the harmonisation process.
