E-transmission: Name nine states without mobile network – Dele Momodu to Akpabio
ADC Chieftain Challenges Senate President Over Network Issues Impacting Elections
Dele Momodu, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has publicly questioned Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s assertion that mobile network services are unavailable in nine Nigerian states.
Momodu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly collaborate with telecommunications providers to address any connectivity issues that may hinder the electronic transmission of election results. In a post on social media platform X, he criticized the reasoning behind citing network failures as justification for limiting electronic voting, highlighting that modern technology enables high-speed internet even aboard aircraft.
“Sir, name the nine states in which mobile networks are not operational. Please, let INEC engage our telecommunications companies to work on solutions for these areas,” he stated.
Momodu emphasized that the technological advancements of today render excuses about network failures outdated. “We are not in an illiterate era; if telephones and internet connections can function at high altitudes, we should not continue to offer untenable excuses,” he added.
He also questioned the implications of potentially canceling or undermining electronic transmission based on challenges in just nine out of the 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory. Momodu characterized such decisions as detrimental to Nigeria’s progress, suggesting that they portray the nation as resigned to a cycle of stagnation.
His remarks came in response to statements made by Akpabio, who indicated that insecurity in certain states could obstruct the real-time electronic transmission of election results. Speaking at a public event regarding proposed amendments to the Electoral Act, Akpabio asserted that some regions are experiencing severe disruptions, leaving the federal government unable to provide support.
“Real-time transfer of results means that in the nine states where networks are not functioning due to insecurity, there will be no election outcomes,” Akpabio stated. “If the national grid fails and no networks are operational, there will be no results.”
Momodu concluded by urging authorities to clearly identify the states allegedly affected and to resolve the connectivity issues to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
