The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised concerns over the controversy surrounding the Senate’s position on the transmission of election results ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the issue could erode public confidence in the electoral process.

In a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, and made available to Daily Sun on Monday, the Guild said the uncertainty created by the Senate’s endorsement of provisions in the proposed 2022 Electoral Act — which permit the transmission of election results without making it mandatory and immediate — is already generating suspicion and mistrust among Nigerians.

The editors noted that the development contradicts the expectations of many citizens and lawmakers who have consistently advocated compulsory, real-time transmission of results from polling units to central collation centres.

According to the NGE, the growing public discontent over the Senate’s position has pitched citizens against the legislature and could dampen voter enthusiasm in future elections.

“At a time when Nigerians are demanding mandatory and instant transmission of election results, and as countries across the globe adopt electronic transmission to improve transparency, the Senate’s stance leaves much to be desired,” the statement read.

The Guild described the Senate’s position as a missed opportunity to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral system, adding that it weakens efforts to strengthen democratic governance and deliver credible elections.

The editors stressed that compulsory electronic transmission of results has become an international best practice for improving electoral integrity and efficiency, noting that Nigeria should not lag behind global standards.

As the Senate is expected to reconvene on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to harmonise its position with that of the House of Representatives, the NGE urged the National Assembly to approve mandatory and immediate transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) central servers and collation centres.

The Guild said such a move would promote free and fair elections, improve transparency, accuracy and efficiency, and restore voter confidence in the electoral process.

It added that the digitalisation of elections would simplify result management, reduce disputes and controversies, and significantly curb electoral malpractice.

“Nigerians are closely watching the National Assembly on this matter,” the statement warned, adding that any outcome short of mandatory and immediate transmission of results would fall short of modern and progressive electoral standards.