(DDM) – The ADC South East Youth Front (SEYF) has reacted strongly to the Senate’s rejection of key electoral reform proposals, accusing federal lawmakers of weakening Nigeria’s democracy and protecting a flawed system.
SEYF, through its Media and Publicity Secretary Mr. Austin Okoro, delivered a confrontational response shortly after news of the Senate decision reached the public.
Okoro said the Senate’s refusal to approve electronic transmission of results and downloadable electronic voter cards shows a lack of commitment to transparent elections.
He argued that modern democracies strengthen credibility by using technology, not by clinging to manual systems.
“The Senate has chosen to defend opacity instead of progress,” Okoro stated.
He maintained that keeping result transmission manual exposes elections to manipulation, delays, and disputes.
He added that rejecting downloadable electronic voter cards denies citizens easier access to participation and voter verification.
SEYF insisted that these reforms would have improved trust in the electoral process and reduced human interference.
Okoro claimed that by rejecting the reforms, lawmakers sent a message that political interests outweigh citizens’ voices.
He warned that such decisions could damage public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a firm tone, SEYF called on Nigerians to hold their representatives accountable for decisions affecting democracy.
However, the group urged citizens to express their views through lawful and peaceful civic engagement, including advocacy, dialogue, and participation in democratic processes.
Okoro said young Nigerians especially must pay attention to electoral laws because they shape the future of leadership.
He stressed that electoral credibility affects governance, economic stability, and national unity.
SEYF described the Senate decision as a step backward at a time many Nigerians expect reforms.
The group argued that electoral integrity requires constant improvement, not resistance to change.
Political observers note that youth groups increasingly speak out on electoral matters and legislative actions.
Analysts say such reactions reflect growing political awareness among young citizens.
Some lawmakers have defended cautious approaches to electoral technology, citing security, legal, and infrastructure concerns.
They argue that reforms must match institutional capacity.
Despite these arguments, SEYF maintains that Nigeria must not delay modernization.
Okoro concluded that credible elections remain the foundation of democracy and said citizens will continue to demand accountability as 2027 approaches.
