Senate approves electronic transmission of election results to INEC’s IReV portal, with Form EC8A as backup for network failures

The Nigerian Senate has reversed an earlier decision and adopted a revised provision mandating the electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Results Viewing Portal (IReV).

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The resolution, formalised on Tuesday during an emergency plenary session, allows presiding officers to send results electronically, while retaining Form EC8A as the primary means of collation in case of network or technical failures.

The motion, titled “Motion for rescission on Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2026,” was moved by the Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Tahir Munguno, and seconded by Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central). It passed by voice vote, with the majority of senators supporting the revised clause.

Munguno said the amendment would enhance speed, accuracy, and accountability in election result management, resolving previous ambiguity over the transfer versus transmission of results.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio read out the revised provision, noting, “Presiding officers shall electronically transmit the results from the polling units to INEC’s IReV portal.

If electronic transmission fails and it becomes difficult to transmit results, Form EC8A shall serve as the primary means of collation.”

The Senate also expanded its membership of the conference committee on the Electoral Bill Amendment, 2026, increasing its representation to 12 members to match the House of Representatives and speed up harmonisation.

Senator Simon Lalong Bako retained his position as chairman, with additional senators appointed to the committee.

Akpabio stressed the urgency of completing the harmonisation process within days or a week to enable President Bola Tinubu to assent to the amended bill within February.

Also read: JUST IN: Senate rejects mandatory electronic result upload

The amendment follows public outcry and protests from civil society groups, political parties, and activists—including a coalition led by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi—who demanded electronic transmission of election results to strengthen transparency.