Professor Pat Utomi, a member of the Movement for Credible Elections, has proposed the use of body cameras and live-streaming technology at polling units to improve transparency during elections. In an interview with ARISE News, Utomi discussed measures that could help Nigerians independently monitor the electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections. He emphasized that technology could provide real-time evidence of activities at polling units.
Utomi's proposal aims to make it more difficult for electoral irregularities to go undocumented. He suggested that body cameras and live streaming from every polling booth in the country could be effective tools. Utomi also questioned restrictions that could prevent citizens, civil society groups, or other stakeholders from using technology to make elections more transparent. He expressed concern that such restrictions would undermine the transparency of the electoral process.
The political economist highlighted the importance of election monitoring by political parties, particularly through the deployment of polling agents. He noted that parties that cannot place agents at polling stations across the country could be vulnerable. Utomi emphasized that a party without agents in all polling stations may not have representatives present when results are recorded, making them susceptible to electoral malpractices.
Utomi called for greater collaboration among opposition parties, suggesting that resources could be shared to strengthen election monitoring. He urged Nigerians to become more aware of their voting rights and the importance of participating in elections. According to Utomi, increased awareness and participation could make it more difficult for attempts to undermine votes to succeed.
Utomi's comments come as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections. The use of technology in elections has been a subject of discussion in recent years. Utomi's proposal is part of a broader effort to ensure that elections in Nigeria are transparent and credible. He emphasized that the deployment of body cameras and live-streaming technology could be a step in the right direction.
The Movement for Credible Elections, of which Utomi is a member, has been advocating for measures to improve the transparency and credibility of elections in Nigeria. Utomi's proposal has sparked a renewed debate about the role of technology in Nigeria's electoral process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been working to improve the electoral process, but Utomi's comments highlight the need for further reforms.
Utomi's advocacy for election transparency is part of a broader effort to promote good governance in Nigeria. He has previously spoken out on issues related to electoral reform and the need for greater transparency in government. Utomi's proposal for body cameras and live streaming at polling units is a significant contribution to the ongoing debate about election transparency in Nigeria.
Key points
- Professor Pat Utomi proposes the deployment of body cameras and live-streaming technology at polling units to enhance transparency in Nigeria's electoral process.
- Utomi emphasizes the importance of election monitoring by political parties and collaboration among opposition parties to strengthen election monitoring.
- The proposal aims to make it more difficult for electoral irregularities to go undocumented and promote transparency in the electoral process.
