A member representing Aba North and South Federal constituency, Alex Ikwechegh, has thrown his weight behind real-time electronic transmission and collation of election results from polling units.
Ikwechegh declared his unequivocal support for the new law while acknowledged divergent views in public policy debates but stressed that adopting technology is crucial to sanitizing Nigeria’s electoral system.
He argued that real-time collation and transmission of results is the only way Nigeria and its political system can be truly sanitized and ensure that the people’s votes count.
The lawmaker warned that reliance on manual collation leaves room for manipulation and could undermine democratic progress.
He dismissed concerns about limited network coverage in some areas, adding that innovative solutions could address the shortfall.
He said “I am for electronic transmission, real-time collation. This is 2026. We are no longer in 1945. We should embrace growth and progress.
The Houses of Representatives would harmonize its position with the Senate after thorough scrutiny of amendment.
“Let us not put the entire country’s electoral system under jeopardy because of a few pockets of constituencies said not to have service,” he added.
He urged political actors to prioritize national interest over partisan advantage, emphasizing that reforms should be pursued not for temporary gains but for the benefit of future generations.
On the 2027 election, Ikwechegh said his decision would be guided by the wishes of his constituents in Aba, emphasizing that politics is about service and representation.
“If my people in Aba say they want me to continue providing quality representation and dividends of democracy, why not? I am very much willing to offer my services as the chief servant of the people of Aba,” he said.
Ikwechegh also hailed a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), who recently turned 70 years for his service to the nation.
He described him as a patriotic Nigerian whose service brought pride not only to Abia State and the South-East but to the entire nation.
