Reno Omokri Supports Electronic Transmission of Election Results, Says Real-Time Upload Is Unrealistic

Reno Omokri has weighed in on Nigeria’s electoral reform debate, supporting electronic transmission of results while warning that real-time uploads may not be practical.

Reno Omokri backs electronic transmission of election results but says real-time upload may not work nationwide.

Omokri Weighs In on Electoral Act Debate

Reno Omokri, an ambassador-designate and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has voiced support for the electronic transmission of election results in Nigeria.

However, he argues that demanding real-time electronic upload across the country may not be practical. Omokri shared his views during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today amid ongoing controversy over proposed amendments to the Electoral Act.

The debate centres on whether election results should be transmitted electronically in real time or whether a more flexible system should be adopted.

Backing Electronic Transmission With Limits

Omokri made it clear that he supports electronic transmission of election results. According to him, adopting technology to improve transparency should not be controversial. However, he questioned the insistence on “real-time” transmission in every part of Nigeria. He pointed out that the country’s size and infrastructure challenges make uniform real-time uploads difficult.

He referenced South Africa’s recent election process, noting that similar limitations existed there. He argued that while electronic transmission is possible, connectivity gaps in remote areas remain a serious obstacle. Nigeria has thousands of polling units, many located in rural communities with limited or unstable internet coverage. This has been one of the major concerns raised in past elections.

Senate Amendment Sparks Protest

The controversy intensified after the Senate passed the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Reenactment) Amendment Bill 2026 for a third reading. In the process, lawmakers removed the phrase “real-time” from the section addressing electronic transmission of results. This move triggered protests from civil society groups and some political stakeholders.

Critics argue that removing “real-time” weakens transparency and could open the door to manipulation. Although the Senate has clarified that electronic transmission was not rejected, protesters insist that the law must clearly state “real-time electronic transmission” to prevent ambiguity.

The issue has reignited broader concerns about electoral transparency in Nigeria, especially following debates that trailed the 2023 general elections.

Historical Background of Nigeria and E-Transmission

Electronic transmission of election results has been a sensitive issue in Nigeria for years. In 2022, the Electoral Act introduced provisions that allowed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deploy technology in elections, including electronic transmission where possible.

During the 2023 general elections, INEC used the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and Result Viewing Portal (IReV). However, technical challenges in uploading presidential results in real time sparked controversy and legal battles. Since then, calls for stronger legal backing for real-time electronic transmission have continued.

Omokri’s Position on Serving in Tinubu’s Government

Omokri also addressed questions about his role in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He clarified that he never ruled out serving Nigeria. While he had previously expressed reservations about certain positions due to past statements, he said he is prepared to serve as an ambassador.

President Tinubu recently forwarded a list of ambassadorial nominees to the Senate, and Omokri is among those awaiting confirmation. He stressed that his service would be to Nigeria, not to a political party.

KEY DETAILS

1. Reno Omokri supports electronic transmission of election results, saying real-time transmission nationwide may not be realistic.
2. The Senate removed the word “real-time” from the Electoral Act amendment.
3. Protests followed the amendment’s passage.
4. Omokri is among ambassadorial nominees awaiting Senate confirmation.

INTERNATIONAL CONCERN

Across the world, many democracies use a mix of manual and electronic systems in elections. Countries like South Africa and India rely on technology but still face infrastructure challenges in remote regions.

Even in advanced democracies, full real-time nationwide electronic transmission is not always guaranteed due to technical and security concerns. The global trend is toward greater use of digital systems, but implementation often depends on local infrastructure, legal safeguards, and public trust.

For Nigeria, the debate goes beyond technology. It touches on trust in elections, political stability, and investor confidence. Transparent elections are critical for democratic credibility. Any uncertainty around result transmission can fuel tension, especially in a country with a history of disputed polls.

Political stability also affects Nigeria’s economy, foreign investment, and diplomatic relationships. As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s electoral integrity is closely watched across the continent.

WHAT THIS MEANS

• The disagreement over “real-time” transmission reflects deeper concerns about electoral transparency.
• Supporters of strict real-time rules believe they will reduce manipulation and speed up trust-building.
• Those urging caution point to technical limitations that could create confusion if systems fail.

Ultimately, the final wording of the Electoral Act amendment will shape how future elections are conducted. The debate also signals that electoral reform remains a key political issue heading into future election cycles.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT

1. Senate clarification or possible revision of the amendment wording.
2. Public hearings or consultations on the Electoral Act changes.
3. INEC’s official position on real-time electronic transmission.
4. Senate screening and confirmation of ambassadorial nominees.

FAQ

Q1: Does Omokri support electronic transmission of results?

A: Yes. He supports electronic transmission but questions the feasibility of real-time uploads nationwide.

Q2: Why is “real-time” transmission controversial?

A: Some believe it guarantees transparency, while others argue Nigeria’s infrastructure may not support it everywhere.

Q3: Is electronic transmission currently allowed in Nigeria?

A: Yes. The Electoral Act permits electronic transmission, but the details and implementation are still ambiguous.