INEC Denies APCs Allegations of Smuggling BVAS Machines in Edo State

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Edo State, says it has concluded a thorough investigation into the allegations made by the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the purported smuggling of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines and voters’ registers into the INEC office by members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, for Edo State Dr. Anugbum Onuoha in a press statement said “After a comprehensive review of the allegations, it has been determined that the allegations are baseless, unsubstantiated, and entirely without merit. INEC maintains a steadfast commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process, and at no time were the BVAS machines or voters’ registers compromised or unlawfully accessed by any political party or external entity”.

Onuoha said INEC fully understands the gravity of such claims, which is why the investigation was conducted with the utmost rigor and impartiality.

“As an institution charged with the sacred responsibility of ensuring free, fair, and credible elections, INEC will not tolerate any form of malpractice or manipulation, and the integrity of all electoral materials remains fully intact,” he stated.

He said INEC was in full compliance with the recent court order directing the inspection of electoral materials, including the BVAS machines and voters’ registers.

Onuoha said INEC was prepared to facilitate the inspection process, ensuring transparency and adherence to the rule of law, urging all parties to cooperate fully during this process.

“We appeal to all political actors to focus on the democratic principles that bind us and avoid actions or rhetoric that may undermine public confidence in our electoral system.

“INEC’s commitment to neutrality and excellence in electoral administration remains unwavering, and we will continue to work towards the preservation of democracy and the rule of law in Edo State and Nigeria at large,” he added.

Confidence Okwuchi