The 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has strongly criticised the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results, describing the move as a grave setback to Nigeria’s democracy and a deliberate attempt to undermine electoral credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi made his position known in a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday.

According to him, the Senate’s refusal to adopt compulsory electronic transmission of results amounts to “an unforgivable act of electoral manipulation” and a direct assault on democratic principles.

This failure to pass a clear safeguard is nothing short of a deliberate assault on Nigeria’s democracy,” Obi said, adding that by rejecting transparency measures, lawmakers were weakening the foundation of credible elections.

He questioned the true purpose of government, asking whether it exists to ensure justice and order or to institutionalise chaos for the benefit of a few individuals.

Obi argued that the controversies, disputes and alleged irregularities that characterised previous elections, particularly the 2023 general election, were largely a result of the failure to fully implement electronic transmission of results.

He dismissed claims of technical “glitches” during the elections as excuses, noting that several African countries have successfully adopted electronic transmission to strengthen their democratic systems.

While other African nations are moving forward, Nigeria, the so-called giant of Africa, continues to lag behind, dragging itself and the continent backwards,” he said.

Obi further warned that rejecting mandatory electronic transmission entrenches disorder and confusion aimed at perpetuating the interests of a small clique, urging leaders to reflect on the future of the country and the wellbeing of the next generation.

Referring to past remarks by international leaders, Obi noted that Nigeria often reacts angrily to criticism but continues to validate such assessments through actions that oppose transparency and reform.

When we were called a ‘now disgraced nation,’ we were offended. Yet, with every act of resistance against reform, we continue to confirm those labels,” he said.

He cautioned that the alleged irregularities witnessed during the 2023 elections must not be repeated in 2027, calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to democratic principles.

Obi also urged the international community to pay close attention to what he described as groundwork being laid for future electoral manipulation, warning that it poses serious risks to Nigeria’s democracy and development.