Arewa Group Storms National Assembly, Seek Amendment Of 2022 Electoral Act
Arewa Revival Project, under the auspices of Arewa Youth Development Forum has urged the National Assembly to amend the 2022 electoral act.
In a letter dated 6th May 2024 and addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the group is seeking the inclusion of electronic voting and result transmission in Nigeria’s electoral process.
A copy of the letter made available to journalists was titled, ‘AUDIENCE REQUEST TO SUBMIT PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE 2022
ELECTORAL ACT’
“We are writing to respectfully request an audience with you to submit a proposed amendment to the 2022 Electoral Act.
“Our organization, Arewa Youth Development Forum, is a non-partisan group dedicated to promoting democratic development in Nigeria.
“Our proposed amendment seeks to include electronic voting and result transmission in the electoral process.
“We believe the inclusion of the above proposed amendment will enhance the integrity, efficiency, and transparency of our elections. We have drafted a comprehensive proposal outlining the necessary changes to the Electoral Act and would like to present it to you for consideration.
“We would be obliged if you can schedule a meeting with us at your earliest convenience to discuss this important matter.
“Our team is prepared to provide any additional information and answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the strengthening of our democracy”, the letter reads.
Briefing journalists after submitting the letter, the National Coordinator, Hon. Muttaka Ahmed Ibrahim
said the aim of the group is to advocate for good governance and transparency in electoral processes in Nigeria and across the Africa region.
Hon. Ibrahim stated that the amendment of the 2022 electoral act to include electronic voting and transmission will bring about a free and fair election, as well as reduce the cost of conducting general elections.
He lamented that the 2022 electoral act has done damage to the electoral processes in Nigeria, saying that reports from the US revealed that the 2023 general elections were marred with irregularities and manipulations.
“We want this electoral act to be amended so that once an electorate votes for his/her candidate, it will be transmitted at the polling unit without dealings with papers or interference from the adhoc staff.
Hon. Ibrahim however noted that network problems and low Internet literacy among Nigerians are not factors to stop the amendment of the electoral act to include electronic voting and results transmission to INEC National collation centre.
