Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed strong opposition to the combination of electronic and manual transmission of election results, describing the approach as capable of creating confusion and undermining credibility in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Atiku made his position known while speaking with journalists in Minna after a closed-door meeting with former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), at his hilltop residence.
The former Vice President stated that electronic transmission of results remains the most transparent and reliable option, stressing that introducing manual processes alongside electronic systems could weaken public confidence in elections.
He noted that many Nigerians had expected a clear provision for real-time electronic transmission of results across all levels of elections, but were instead presented with a mixed approach that falls short of public expectations.
Atiku called on opposition political parties to unite and collectively push for reforms that will strengthen the integrity of the electoral process.
He said the matter should not be left unresolved in a manner that benefits those currently in power.
On speculation about the 2027 presidential election, the former Vice President said the issue is premature.
He explained that as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), his focus is on strengthening the party’s structure from the ward level to the national level, alongside ongoing membership mobilisation.
Speaking on zoning, Atiku stated that the ADC does not have zoning provisions in its constitution, adding that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the only major political party in Nigeria with a constitutional zoning arrangement.
He reiterated his commitment to electoral reforms that promote fairness, transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s democratic process.
