As Nigerians rise in anger against the pronouncement by the Senate that it has rejected the realtime uploading of election results through IREV, handing over full powers to INEC, some Nigerians have asked for better understanding of the issues at stake. Barrister Courage Nsirimovu, executive director of PILEX, Peoples Advocate responded to National Point’s questions on the issue.
What does it take to transmit polling unit results in real time?
It will either take a transparent INEC to insist on electronic transmission of results from the polling units to its server or the amendment of the Electoral Act to make the said transmission mandatory; any polling unit that doesn’t transmit should have a rerun. This reform will also happen if the political will is there to meet the demands of the people. Practically, this reform will need INEC to improve the functionality of the Bivas and work with the communication networks to ensure that network is available at the polling units.
Does INEC possess necessary infrastructure and funds to achieve that?
Yes they do, this will happen with the funds earmarked for election logistics and collaboration with the necessary communication and security agencies.
Is the Senate passing the buck to INEC to provide window for election manipulation?
Yes, the provision of S. 60(5) of the electoral Act stipulates that transfer of votes should be as prescribed by INEC. If that provision is not amended, then it will be correct to say that Senate has shifted the buck to INEC to provide window for election manipulations.
What should Nigerians do to ensure that realtime transmission of results is coded in the nation’s laws?
Nigerians must pressure the Senate through perpetual protest and national and international media embarrassment until they heed to the voice of We the people, whom they should be representing.
