A 2021 remark by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu opposing mandatory electronic transmission of election results has resurfaced online, reigniting debate over Nigeria’s electoral reforms and political accountability.
The clip, which has gone viral on social media, captures Kalu arguing against compulsory e-transmission during Senate deliberations on the Electoral Act amendment bill, citing the lack of network coverage in his hometown, Igbere, Abia State.
In the footage, the former Abia State governor told lawmakers that enforcing electronic transmission nationwide could disenfranchise voters in rural areas with poor connectivity.
“There is no network in my village. I vote no,” Kalu said at the time, aligning with senators who advocated manual collation as a fallback for areas without digital infrastructure.
The resurfaced video has triggered criticism from Nigerians, with many questioning Kalu’s record on infrastructure development after serving two terms as governor and several years in the Senate.
Observers argue that the comment underscores broader governance failures, especially in improving telecommunications and digital access in rural communities, which are crucial for credible elections and digital inclusion.
The renewed attention comes as the Senate recently passed electoral amendments allowing electronic transmission of results with manual backups, a position Kalu now supports.
Analysts say the resurfaced remark highlights shifting political positions on electoral technology and has reopened scrutiny of lawmakers’ roles in addressing infrastructural deficits across Nigeria.
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