Electoral Act: Amaechi, Others Opposed Electronic Transmission Under Buhari – Wike
Naija News • 3h ago
**Double Standards in Electoral Politics: Wike Takes on Amaechi and the Opposition**
In a recent media chat, Rivers State's former governor, Nyesom Wike, tore into his former colleague, Rotimi Amaechi, and other opposition figures for their stance on electronic transmission of election results. Wike's words are a scathing critique of the opposition's selective outrage, coming as they do from those who once opposed the very provision they now decry.
The controversy centers around the Electoral Act 2026, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu. The new law allows for the electronic transmission of election results, but also provides for manual transmission where the electronic method fails due to poor network connectivity. This provision has been roundly rejected by opposition parties, who claim it is undemocratic. Wike, however, sees it as a pragmatic measure to prevent the disenfranchisement of voters.
Wike pointed out that when Amaechi was in government, he was part of the group that opposed electronic transmission of results, fearing it would cost their party the election. Now, Amaechi is one of those complaining about the provision, despite his previous stance. Wike's message is clear: if you opposed electronic transmission in the past, how can you now demand its implementation?
The former governor also tackled another contentious provision in the Electoral Act, requiring political parties to conduct direct primaries. Wike argued that this provision would democratize party structures, preventing wealthy individuals from dominating the process. He noted that Nigerians are "professional complainants," criticizing the old system for concentrating power in the hands of party elites, only to complain about the new system.
The opposition's rejection of the Electoral Act has been widely seen as an attempt to undermine the democratic process. Wike's words serve as a reminder that electoral politics in Nigeria can be a complex and often contradictory game. As the country moves forward, it is crucial that politicians and citizens alike are held accountable for their actions and words. Only then can Nigeria truly build a more democratic and inclusive electoral system.