Sen. Orji Kalu throws support on Electronic Transmission of Election Results from polling units

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has thrown his weight behind the Senate’s newly adopted position approving the electronic transmission of election results from polling units across the country, describing it as a balanced reform that strengthens transparency while protecting voters in areas with limited network access.

Kalu made his position known on Tuesday following an emergency plenary session of the Senate, where lawmakers adopted the amended Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act.

This is contrary to the circulation of an old video, where the lawmaker allegedly voted against electronic transmission of election results during the last administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“Today at emergency plenary, I supported and added my voice to the Senate’s new position approving the electronic transmission of election results from polling units across Nigeria,” the former Abia State governor said.

He explained that under the amendment, presiding officers are authorised to transmit results electronically once Form EC8A has been properly completed and signed.

“With the adoption of the amended Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act, presiding officers are now permitted to transmit results electronically after Form EC8A has been duly completed and signed,” Kalu stated.

According to him, the new provision establishes electronic transmission as the preferred method wherever the required technology is available and functional, while also providing a safeguard where technical challenges arise.

“This means electronic transmission becomes the primary method where the technology is available and functional. However, where it fails or becomes impossible, the duly signed Form EC8A remains the valid and primary source of results,” he said.

Kalu noted that the approach strikes a critical balance between innovation and inclusiveness, ensuring that no voter is excluded due to infrastructural limitations.

“This balanced approach strengthens transparency, fairness, and credibility in our electoral process, while ensuring that voters in network-challenged communities are not disenfranchised,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to democratic ideals, the senator stressed that electoral reforms must reflect the realities across the country.

“Our democracy must work for every Nigerian, everywhere,” Kalu said.

The Senate’s decision has continued to generate nationwide debate, with supporters arguing that the amendment enhances electoral integrity, while critics warn it could create room for abuse if not properly implemented.