(DDM) – Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani has said that electronic transmission of election results on its own cannot guarantee completely free and fair elections in Nigeria.
He made this position known while discussing recent electoral reforms and the debate surrounding result transmission methods across the country.
The former lawmaker spoke during a live appearance on Sunrise Daily, where he analysed the strengths and weaknesses of technology in the electoral process.
The programme was broadcast on Channels Television, a station widely followed for political and public affairs discussions.
Sani’s comments came shortly after the National Assembly of Nigeria passed amendments to the nation’s electoral framework.
The amendments include approval for electronic transmission of results while still allowing manual collation as a backup option.
This decision has triggered widespread reactions from political actors, civil society groups, and members of the public.
Many Nigerians see electronic transmission as a step toward greater transparency in elections.
Others remain cautious, arguing that technology can also be manipulated by determined actors.
Sani noted that no electoral system in the world is completely immune to manipulation.
He explained that individuals who are determined to rig elections often study systems carefully to find loopholes.
According to him, the presence of electronic transfer does not automatically eliminate malpractice.
He stressed that the credibility of elections depends largely on the integrity of those managing the process.
He argued that where there is sincere commitment to fairness, elections are more likely to be credible.
He also warned that where manipulation is the goal, even the best systems can be compromised.
The former senator added that the human factor remains the most critical element in any election.
He said technology should support, not replace, ethical conduct and strong institutions.
Sani further raised concerns about vote-buying during elections.
He observed that financial inducement of voters still occurs despite existing laws.
He pointed out that enforcement agencies lack enough personnel to monitor every community.
He explained that it is difficult to police every polling environment across a large country like Nigeria.
He maintained that some voters still accept money or gifts in exchange for support.
Such practices, he said, weaken democratic values and distort the will of the people.
Sani therefore called for reforms that go beyond technological upgrades.
He recommended stronger political will and moral accountability among leaders.
He also emphasised voter education as a tool for long-term improvement.
He concluded that credible elections require both good systems and good intentions.
His remarks add to the ongoing national conversation on how to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
