The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained the major challenge affecting real-time upload of election results across Nigeria. According to the commission, the biggest obstacle is poor network connectivity, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. INEC noted that many polling units do not have stable internet coverage, making it difficult for officials to transmit results immediately after counting. This problem often leads to delays, which in turn fuels suspicion among voters.

INEC further stated that while the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) is fully capable of uploading results instantly, it cannot function without reliable network service. In regions with low connectivity, officials are sometimes forced to move to nearby towns or network spots, causing additional delays. The commission emphasised that this technical issue — not manipulation — is responsible for many of the upload setbacks Nigerians complain about.

To address the problem, INEC said it is working with telecom service providers to improve coverage during elections. The commission is also exploring the use of offline backup options and upgrading technology to make transmission faster and more resilient. However, they stressed that achieving smooth, nationwide real-time uploads requires broader improvement in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Despite criticisms from political parties and civil society groups, INEC insists it remains committed to transparent elections. The commission believes that with stronger network support, better logistics, and continuous voter trust, real-time result uploads will eventually become a seamless part of Nigeria’s electoral system.