Edo poll: We’ll support election materials inspection, says INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it is ready to facilitate the inspection of materials used in Edo State governorship election.

INEC stated this as it debunked the allegations that some of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System machines and voters’ registers were smuggled into its office by members of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner of the state, Anugbum Onuoha, in a statement on Friday, described the allegation as baseless, saying it could not be substantiated.

Recall that the All Progressives Congress had alleged that PDP smuggled some BVAS and voter register to the INEC’s office to rig the September 21 governorship election in the state.

However, Onuoha said, “Following 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 would not tolerate any form of malpractice or manipulation, stating that the integrity of all electoral materials remains fully intact.

“In light of these findings, we are in full compliance with the recent court order directing the inspection of electoral materials, including the BVAS machines and voters’ registers.

“INEC is prepared to facilitate this inspection process, ensuring transparency and adherence to the rule of law. We urge all parties to cooperate fully during this process”, he added.

Onuoha appealed to all political actors to focus on the democratic principles that bind them and the commission and avoid actions or rhetoric that may undermine public confidence the 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”, said Onuoha.