Expert Faults Delay in Real-Time Results Upload, Says INEC Can Leverage Fintech Infrastructure

A governance and security expert, Saka Azimazi, has insisted that Nigeria’s electoral body has no justification for failing to implement real-time electronic transmission of election results, arguing that existing private-sector technology already proves nationwide digital coverage is achievable.

Azimazi, a Consultant and Technical Adviser on Law, Security and Governance at the Kukah Centre, spoke during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, where he stressed that Nigerians deserve transparent and technology-driven election result management.

He maintained that the ongoing controversy surrounding electronic transmission of results should not be used to deny citizens credible electoral processes.

According to him, financial technology firms such as Moniepoint and OPay already operate reliable digital networks across the country, demonstrating that nationwide transactional infrastructure is possible.

“If fintech platforms can successfully process transactions across Nigeria, there is nothing preventing the electoral body from adopting or adapting similar technology for election result transmission,” he said.

Azimazi noted that the amendment process on electoral provisions is still ongoing at the National Assembly of Nigeria, adding that lawmakers are expected to harmonise differing positions through committee reconciliation.

He described real-time electronic transmission as a necessary safeguard for electoral credibility and public trust.

His comments come amid sustained debate over electronic transmission of results, with youth groups, opposition figures and civil society organisations staging protests and urging the Independent National Electoral Commission to make real-time upload of results mandatory in future elections.