The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Edo State Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Anubgum Onuoha, who is also a blood relative to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has refuted claims of tampering with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during the just concluded gubernatorial elections in the state.
This drama started shortly after the election.
The commission had announced the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as the winner of that election.
As expected, many political parties and their candidates who took part in the election disagreed with the results.
Notably, the PDP made it known that they would approach a court to prove that votes were stolen.
PDP Vs INEC
Shortly after, the party accused the INEC of refusing to allow the party and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, access to the BVAS machines and other materials used during the election.
Reacting to the allegation, Onuoha in a statement issued on Tuesday, described the allegations as “baseless, misleading, and devoid of truth.”
According to him, he has never denied any political party, agents, or representatives the opportunity to inspect the BVAS machines before the legal contestation surrounding the election.
Furthermore, Onuaha said political parties interested in challenging the results of the election are free to do so, as the move has already been addressed by the law.
The Invitation
He also invited all political parties, including the PDP to inspect the BVAS on Wednesday.
He said: “The attention of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and my office as the Resident Electoral Commission (REC) for Edo State has been drawn to certain unfounded allegations suggesting that I have refused political parties and their representatives access to inspect the Biomodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices and other election materials used during the recent elections.
“Let me categorically state that these allegations are baseless, misleading and completely devoid of truth.
“INEC under my leadership in Edo State, remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, fairness and integrity in all electoral processes.
Inspection Of Materials
“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.
It will take place on October 9, 2024, at 10:00 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.
Baseless Accusation
“Any political party or candidate seeking to inspect these materials has been and will continue to be granted access.
But they must follow the proper procedures as outlined by the Election Tribunal and relevant legal frameworks.
Also Read: Edo Guber: Why We Will Not Congratulate APC On Victory – PDP
“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.”
