The Senate’s passage of the amended Electoral Act, which removed mandatory real-time transmission of election results, has triggered strong reactions from political analysts and opposition figures. Critics argue that the decision could weaken transparency and reduce public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu described the Senate’s action as a serious setback for democracy. He said lawmakers failed to protect the value of citizens’ votes by rejecting key electoral reforms. According to him, removing electronic transmission of results sends a worrying signal that elections may no longer reflect the true will of voters, which could discourage participation in future polls.

Shehu further warned that democratic institutions are losing their independence, claiming that the executive, legislature, and judiciary are no longer effectively checking one another. He also accused the electoral umpire, INEC, of lacking independence, arguing that weakened institutions could push citizens to question the future direction of the country and its democracy.

Similarly, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano State described the amendment as a calculated political move ahead of 2027. The party’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Karaye, said the ruling party was uncomfortable with close electoral contests and was attempting to weaken transparency. Despite the concerns, he expressed confidence that Nigerians would remain politically active, urging citizens to stay vigilant, participate peacefully, and work together to protect their votes and democratic rights.