TDThe COPDEM Students Network has strongly criticized the Nigerian Senate’s recent decision to reject key provisions of proposed electoral amendments, particularly those mandating the electronic transmission of election results.
In a press statement signed by Adamu Yusuf Gwary, National President of COPDEM, the group described the move as a “setback to democratic progress” and a deliberate weakening of transparency safeguards in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Transparency Under Threat
Gwary argued that transparency is fundamental to democracy and warned that rejecting electronic transmission raises serious questions about lawmakers’ commitment to democratic ideals.
“Rejecting electronic transmission of results in this era is comparable to thieves voting against the installation of CCTV cameras—not because surveillance is harmful, but because it exposes wrongdoing,” the statement read.
He emphasized that electronic transmission is designed to protect the sanctity of the vote, reduce human interference, and restore public confidence in elections.
Youth and Student Advocacy
The statement highlighted the consistent demands of Nigerian youth and students for reforms that make elections freer, fairer, and more credible.
Gwary noted that democracy thrives on openness and accountability, not secrecy or ambiguity.
“Democracy does not fear openness. Credible elections welcome systems that allow citizens to verify that their votes truly count,” he declared.
Call to Action
COPDEM urged democratic institutions, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens to intensify advocacy for reforms that strengthen transparency and accountability.
The group insisted that lawmakers owe Nigerians laws that protect their votes, rather than systems that benefit a few while leaving the majority in doubt.
“Nigeria’s democracy must work in the light, not in the shadows,” Gwary stressed.
Broader Implications
The Senate’s rejection of electronic transmission has sparked widespread debate, with critics warning that the decision could erode public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Civil society groups argue that manual collation of results has historically been prone to manipulation and delays, and that technology offers a safeguard against such risks.
The contrasting positions of the Senate and the House of Representatives—where lawmakers have supported progressive reforms—set the stage for a crucial decision by the Conference Committee, which will reconcile differences between both chambers.
COPDEM’s intervention underscores growing frustration among young Nigerians over perceived attempts to weaken electoral integrity.
As the country prepares for the next election cycle, the debate over transparency and accountability in the electoral process is likely to intensify.
