Electoral Act: Network excuses no longer acceptable – Obi

By Aishat Adedeji

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said excuses about poor network coverage should no longer be used to delay or manipulate election results, insisting on real-time electronic transmission across Nigeria.

Obi spoke on Tuesday after joining the “Occupy the National Assembly” protest in Abuja, organised by members of the Obidient Movement and pro-democracy activists. The protesters accused lawmakers of weakening electoral transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said he joined the protest to demand urgent electoral reforms that reflect the will of Nigerians. Obi stressed that anyone seeking public office must meet constitutional requirements, present verifiable educational records, and participate in transparent campaigns and public debates.

On electronic voting and result transmission, Obi said claims of poor network coverage were no longer acceptable, noting that banks operate nationwide through secure digital systems daily.

He urged Nigerians, especially youths, to remain engaged in the push for credible elections.

The protest followed the Senate’s removal of the phrase “real-time” from electronic transmission provisions in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. Protesters carried placards calling for the protection of democracy and credible elections.