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E-Transmission Of Results Is The Only Way To Ensure Electoral Integrity” — Ex-INEC REC Igini.
Former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr. Mike Igini, has underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to fully implement electronic transmission of election results as a crucial safeguard for electoral integrity and democratic accountability.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Igini made the remarks while delivering a keynote address at a Yiaga Africa roundtable on Friday in Abuja, themed: “Electronic Transmission and Electoral Integrity: Safeguarding the Vote under the Electoral Act 2026.”
He highlighted that democracy thrives on citizen participation and accountability, emphasizing that credible, periodic elections form the foundation for peaceful transfers of power and allow citizens to shape their collective future.
Reaffirming INEC’s constitutional independence, Igini cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution that empower the commission to regulate its procedures without external interference.
The former REC noted that INEC’s adoption of technological tools such as the Smart Card Reader and Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) has significantly advanced transparency and reduced electoral manipulation. He recalled successful pilot electronic transmission of results in Cross River and described the introduction of BVAS and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) as milestones that boosted public confidence in the electoral process.
However, Igini expressed concern over Section 60(3) of the Electoral Act 2026, which still designates the manually signed Form EC8A as the primary source for collating results despite electronic transmission. He described this as a potential setback capable of undermining the gains achieved through technology.
He also referenced the Supreme Court’s characterization of IReV as merely a viewing portal, noting that this interpretation conflicts with INEC’s constitutional authority to determine its procedures. Igini warned that conditional electronic transmission could weaken transparency, fuel voter apathy, and erode public trust in elections.
Highlighting the benefits, he stressed that real-time result uploads would enhance transparency, minimize human error, and strengthen the credibility of outcomes. He acknowledged challenges such as infrastructure gaps, cybersecurity risks, and resistance from political actors but called for strategic investment in technology, stronger safeguards, and wider stakeholder engagement.
Igini further urged INEC to maintain open communication with citizens on contentious electoral issues and called on the judiciary to uphold the rule of law, emphasizing that a courageous and independent judiciary is vital for the viability of democracy.
He added, “The sensitivity of the law is key to the practice of democracy. Justice Ademola once said judges should not be seen to blow muted trumpets. They must stand tall and mighty in defense of democracy and the rule of law. Democracy without the rule of law is merely the coming together of vicious men to take what they want. When courts fail to hold political elites accountable, they fail the people.”
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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