At present, if there is one aspiration that resonates with Nigerians, it is the desire for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct credible elections in 2027.
Nigerians have become disillusioned by the events of the 2023 general elections, which many perceived as a charade. Prior to this, elections were subject to significant manipulation. This unsatisfactory experience prompted widespread calls for reform of the 2022 Electoral Act.
The Electoral Act included certain measures designed to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. However, by not mandating the electronic transmission of election results, there was a collective call for the National Assembly to amend the 2022 Electoral Act to include provisions for mandatory real-time transmission.
It became apparent that the National Assembly was not prepared to facilitate transparent elections in the country.
On February 17, 2026, the National Assembly enacted a new Electoral Act that fell short of the expectations of many Nigerians.
Nevertheless, there were members of both chambers of the National Assembly—the House of Representatives and the Senate—who stood in solidarity with citizens desiring impeccable elections that would inspire confidence.
In the House of Representatives, Honorable Emeka Chinedu, representing Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency, exemplified such solidarity. Honorable Chinedu set aside party affiliations and chose to align with the citizens.
He voted in favour of mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results for 2027. For this act of integrity, he will be remembered favorably by posterity.
His two other colleagues from Imo State, specifically Honorable Imo Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato Federal Constituency, and Honorable Matthew Nwaogu, representing Aboh Mbaise/Ngor/Okpala, have distinguished themselves significantly. The trio has indelibly inscribed their names in history as Imo’s Champions of Transparent Elections. They are truly deserving of commendation and recognition..
Signed.
Comrade Ibeh C.
Security Consultant/CEO MGIntelligence Limited Imo State.
