El-Rufai backs Obi-led protest on real-time election results

By Goli Innocent

Former Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai has thrown his support behind protests over the Senate’s rejection of real-time electronic transmission of election results, saying rigging occurs at collation centres.

El-Rufai told Trust Television that had he not been abroad, he would have joined Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, who led demonstrators to the National Assembly on Monday.

“That is where the real rigging takes place,” el-Rufai said. He described real-time transmission as the only way to prevent manipulation of results on election days.

The former governor criticised the ruling party and federal government, claiming they resist real-time transmission because their victory depends on post-election result manipulation.

El-Rufai also highlighted the African Democratic Congress’ (ADC) preparations for the 2027 elections. He said the party is mobilising supporters, drafting its manifesto, and ensuring all aspirants have a fair opportunity to contest, without forced consensus or zoning.

On February 4, the Senate passed the Electoral Act amendment bill but rejected the clause mandating real-time electronic transmission of results. The House of Representatives had approved the measure.

Clause 60(3) of the proposed amendment required presiding officers to transmit polling unit results to the IReV portal in real time, after completion of Form EC8A. Instead, the Senate retained the 2022 law, which allows presiding officers to transfer results in a manner prescribed by INEC.

The move sparked public outrage, prompting the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to threaten mass action.