By Our Correspondent
Former Anambra State Governorship Aspirant and prominent political stakeholder, H/E Dr. Ike Oligbo, has strongly condemned the Nigerian Senate over its refusal to pass provisions for real-time electronic transmission of election results, describing the move as a calculated setback to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
In a press statement issued in Awka on Wednesday, the award-winning business mogul expressed deep disappointment with the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of “playing games with the intelligence of Nigerians” by failing to strengthen the Electoral Act in a way that would make rigging and election manipulation nearly impossible.
Dr. Oligbo particularly criticized the inclusion of a manual collation option in the proposed amendments, describing the move as a deliberate loophole capable of undermining electoral transparency.
“The Senate has proven, by this action, that it is not fully committed to free and fair elections in Nigeria. Retaining a manual system alongside electronic transmission creates room for manipulation, voter apathy and compromises the integrity of the process,” Oligbo stated.
Oligbo further emphasized that such a decision is capable of deepening voter apathy, discouraging eligible citizens from actively participating in the electoral process. According to him, when people begin to feel that their votes will not count or that outcomes are predetermined, motivation declines, leading to low voter turnout and weakened democratic engagement.
He noted that this growing disillusionment often fueled by dissatisfaction with political actors and a perceived lack of transparency poses a serious threat to the credibility and sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy.
He further warned that Nigeria cannot afford a repeat of contentious and disputed electoral outcomes, stressing that public confidence in the democratic system must not be eroded by avoidable legislative compromises.
According to him, the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on credible, transparent, and technology-driven elections that reflect the true will of the people.
Dr. Oligbo called on the National Assembly to reconsider its position and align with the aspirations of Nigerians who demand accountability, transparency, and electoral reforms capable of restoring trust in the nation’s democratic institutions.
