The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says 40 companies have indicated an interest in demonstrating how electronic voting machines work as part of the commission’s efforts to migrate from manual voting to electronic voting.
According to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the planned migration was in response to Nigerians’ call for deepening the use of technology in elections.
The INEC boss spoke during the demonstration of the machines by manufacturers in Abuja on Monday.
Yakubu said, “Over the years, the commission has been automating the critical pillars of the process. The biometric register of voters has been updated continuously. At the moment, the INEC register of voters is the largest database of citizens in Nigeria.
“In addition, the combination of biometric voter cards commonly known as the Permanent Voter Card and the Smart Card Reader have revolutionised the accreditation of voters during elections.
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“More recently, the introduction of a number of portals has facilitated the seamless nomination of candidates for elective offices by political parties as well as the accreditation of observers and the media.
“Most significantly, the commission now uploads polling unit level results in real-time on Election Day to a portal for public view. These are significant innovations that have deepened the transparency and credibility of elections and the electoral process in Nigeria.
“The commission developed the specifications of the functions required of the machine. After extensive discussion and review, the commission took the decision to invite original manufacturers of electronic voting machines around the world for a virtual or practical demonstration of the machines.”
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Meanwhile, some Nigerians have taken to social media to hail the commission for moving towards e-voting as a means of curbing election rigging.
Taking to Facebook, Aboyewa Ilemobayo Oluwaseun wrote, “It’s a good innovation but it Shouldn’t try to look like what is obtainable overseas at all because that’s where the mistake begins.
“Simply design what reflect what is obtainable here in Nigeria and not even “Africa”.
“This is why big techs come to Nigeria and fold up.”
Ademu Christian wrote, “This will be a very good innovation.”
Olufemi Oluyomi also wrote, “Very good brilliant progressive presentation provided it will not be tampered with for a hidden agenda.”
Emmanuel Akwudolueze Izuegbunam wrote, “Thank you PMB for this life-changing step. There might be hope for Nigeria las las.”
Gottes Sohn wrote, “Good idea! We have never really been short of ideas but of honest people overseeing things.
“A step in the right direction for people like me that find our voting centres intimidating. Definitely would help and make more people vote.”