The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the office of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State have reacted to the allegations suggesting that some political parties have been prevented from accessing and inspecting the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, devices and other election materials used during the recent elections.
In a statement he signed in reaction to the claims, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State, said the allegations are baseless, misleading, and completely devoid of truth.
He said INEC, under his leadership in Edo State, remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and integrity in all electoral processes.
According to him: “The inspection of election materials is a fundamental right of all parties involved in election petitions, and it is a process that we are mandated by law to facilitate. At no time have I or any official in my office obstructed or denied any political party or their representatives access to inspect the materials used in the last elections.
“INEC is fully aware of the legal implications of such actions, and we are dedicated to supporting the lawful processes that enable parties to seek redress in the courts.
“In furtherance of this commitment, I wish to inform the public that the inspection of the election materials, including the BVAS devices, has been formally scheduled to take place tomorrow, October 9, 2024, at 10 am at the INEC Headquarters in Edo State.
“All political parties and their representatives are invited to participate in this exercise, as per the legal procedures, to ensure transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
“Any political party or candidate seeking to inspect these materials has been and will continue to be granted access, provided they follow the proper procedures as outlined by the Election Tribunal and relevant legal frameworks.
“It is, therefore, unfortunate that these baseless accusations have been circulated without any evidence or proper engagement with my office. I urge all stakeholders and the general public to disregard such misinformation. As a Commission, our loyalty remains to the Nigerian people, the Constitution, and the rule of law.
“INEC, as an institution, stands for transparency, and we are fully committed to ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and accountable. Any party wishing to engage with my office regarding the inspection of materials is encouraged to do so through the appropriate legal channels and I assure them of our full cooperation.”