Reno Omokri has weighed into the heated debate over Nigeria’s electoral reforms, insisting the Senate did not reject electronic transmission of results.
The ambassador designate says what the Senate refused was the push to make real time transmission mandatory, describing that demand as unrealistic and politically driven.
Speaking in a televised interview, Omokri argued that electronic transmission is already part of Nigeria’s electoral law. But he said critics are pushing an expectation that even advanced countries do not operate with.
He asked why real time transmission is not being done in the United States or the United Kingdom, noting that even those countries still struggle with coverage gaps and infrastructure challenges.
Omokri also pointed to Nigeria’s legal framework, saying physical result sheets, Form EC8A, remain the main evidence in election disputes. He added that electronically transmitted results do not override documents that have been signed at polling units.
According to him, concerns about manipulation can be checked through party agents who are present at polling units and sign the result sheets alongside electoral officials.
He dismissed claims that resistance to real time transmission is an attempt to rig future elections, describing such accusations as emotional rather than legal.
Omokri also addressed criticism about his past comments on President Bola Tinubu, saying he withdrew earlier allegations after court rulings and personally apologized.
He said accepting a diplomatic appointment is not a contradiction, insisting it is service to Nigeria, not loyalty to any individual.
Omokri expressed confidence that the APC will retain power in 2027, pointing to what he described as economic improvements, including higher state revenues and foreign reserves.
The debate has continued as opposition groups and civil society push for clearer legal backing for instant electronic transmission, arguing it would boost transparency and trust in the process.
