Real Time Result Transmission Key to Transparent Elections, Hon. Okwara

Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, a member of the House of Representatives from Abia State, has called for real-time electronic transmission of election results to improve transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Speaking in an interview with NASS News, the lawmaker explained that while the recently passed Electoral Act allows results to be transmitted electronically, it still leaves room for manual processes that could undermine public trust.

According to him, the majority of Nigerians have consistently demanded a fully transparent and secure system for transmitting election results.

Everyone had one request the transmission of results. The law allows results to be uploaded and transmitted, but it also keeps the manual process. The question then becomes what happens if transmission is delayed or fails, he said.

Hon. Okwara noted that in previous elections, there have been cases where physical result sheets were tampered with or mutilated, making it difficult for citizens to fully trust the final outcome.

He suggested that results should be uploaded to a secure server immediately after counting, where they would be locked and protected from tampering.

Once the result is uploaded, it should remain in the system until there is network service to send it to the server. That way, nobody can alter it, he explained.

The lawmaker stressed that such a system would not necessarily mean Nigeria is adopting full electronic voting, which he believes the country may not yet be prepared for.

Security Concerns in Abia

During the interview, Hon. Okwara also addressed the security situation in Abia State, emphasizing the need for stronger security presence in areas experiencing unrest.

He explained that security strategies should be localized, since each community faces different challenges.

Security is very local. When issues arise in a particular place, they must be handled according to the specific situation in that area, he said.

According to him, even a small increase in security presence can reassure citizens and discourage criminal activity.

Sometimes it doesn’t take hundreds of soldiers. Just a visible presence can make people feel safe and prevent troublemakers from acting.

Empowerment Through Education

Highlighting his work since becoming a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Okwara said he has prioritized empowerment programs and educational scholarships for his constituents.

He described education as the most powerful tool for long term development.

If I feed you today, the food will finish. But if I educate and empower you, you will have the ability to provide for yourself for a lifetime,he said.

The lawmaker also pointed to Nigeria’s large population of over 200 million people as a major advantage that can drive economic growth if citizens are properly educated and empowered.

Our greatest strength is our human resource. If Nigerians are enlightened and skilled, we can achieve great economic success, he added.

Hon. Okwara concluded by encouraging greater investment in education, empowerment, and transparent governance as key steps toward national development.

By Onwuka Mmesoma Michella
NASS NEWS