Kalu Denies Opposing Electronic Transmission, Says Viral Video Is Misleading

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has dismissed claims that he opposed the electronic transmission of election results, describing as misleading a viral video circulating on social media that shows him saying there was no network in his village stating that the video is from the past five years.

In a statement titled “Clarity on My Position Regarding Electronic Transmission of Results,” Kalu expressed concern over what he called the deliberate recycling of a five-year-old video from Senate proceedings and its presentation as his current stance in the 10th Senate.

He noted that the footage in question dates back to 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, pointing out that senators in the video were wearing face masks, an indication that the recording was from the 9th Senate.

According to him, his remarks at the time were made within the context and realities of that period and should not be misconstrued as reflecting his present position.

“For the avoidance of doubt, at no point in the 10th Senate whether during public hearings, plenary deliberations, or executive sessions, have I opposed the electronic transmission of election results,” he stated.

Kalu maintained that advancements in technology over the past five years have strengthened the case for electronic transmission. He added that he, alongside the Senate President and other lawmakers across party lines, has consistently supported the electronic transmission of results as provided for in Section 60(3).

The former Abia State governor also alleged that some political actors were attempting to distort facts ahead of the next election cycle for political advantage.

“As we approach another election cycle, it is not unexpected that serial election losers and desperate political actors will attempt to distort facts and mislead the public for cheap political gains,” he said.

Kalu urged Nigerians to critically assess information circulated online and resist what he described as recycled falsehoods.

He called on the public to remain vigilant and not be swayed by what he termed efforts by disgruntled political elements to misinform citizens.