JUST IN: Institute submits Freedom of Information request to INEC for Edo election data

The Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership has officially submitted a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking crucial data from the recently concluded Edo State gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024.

The think tank is specifically requesting accreditation data from the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the official collation forms (EC8Bs, EC8Cs, and EC8Ds) used across polling units, wards, and Local Government Areas.

In a statement, the Athena Centre emphasized that it would refrain from expressing opinions or conclusions about the election until a thorough review of the requested data is conducted.

The centre noted that its analysis would be meticulous and evidence-based, aimed at producing a detailed post-election audit to inform Nigerians and offer legislative and administrative recommendations for improving the electoral process.

The Athena Centre urged citizens to remain calm and patient as they carry out the review, assuring the public that any irregularities or infractions would be uncovered through their rigorous process.

”The Athena Centre’s mission is to ensure transparency and accountability are central to the electoral process.

”As a think tank dedicated to using evidence to guide policy and improve governance, we assure Nigerians of our commitment to promoting credible elections and enhancing democratic processes through evidence-based analysis,” a statement signed by Aliyu Jalal, media advisor to the institute read.