Benin, Oct. 11, 2024(TheGavel) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly refuted recent allegations of smuggling Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines into its office in Benin, Edo State. In a statement released on Friday, INEC described the claims as “baseless, unsubstantiated, and without merit.”
The allegations, initially raised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a petition to INEC on Oct. 10, accused members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of smuggling BVAS machines and voter registers into INEC’s Benin office. These claims sparked public concern, prompting INEC to launch an immediate investigation.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Edo State, assured the public that the commission had thoroughly investigated the allegations. “The commission has completed its investigation into the claims and found them to be baseless, unsubstantiated, and without merit,” Onuoha said.
He reassured the public that there had been no compromise or unlawful access to BVAS machines or voter registers by any political party or external entity. Onuoha reiterated INEC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, stating, “At no time were BVAS machines or voter registers compromised. INEC remains fully dedicated to safeguarding the transparency and credibility of the elections.”
Highlighting the gravity of the accusations, the REC stressed that INEC approached its investigation with “the highest level of rigour, professionalism, and impartiality.” He also reaffirmed the commission’s zero-tolerance policy toward any form of electoral malpractice.
“The integrity of all electoral materials, including BVAS, remains fully intact and secure,” Onuoha emphasized, adding that INEC is committed to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
In compliance with a recent court order, INEC has prepared to facilitate the inspection of election materials, including the BVAS machines, in a transparent manner. Onuoha urged all political parties to cooperate during this process and assured the public that the commission would adhere strictly to the rule of law.
The REC further called on political actors to focus on reinforcing democratic principles and avoiding actions that could undermine public confidence in the electoral system. “INEC remains steadfast in its commitment to neutrality, excellence in electoral administration, and ensuring credible outcomes in all elections,” he stated.
The commission continues to uphold its reputation as an impartial body, dedicated to delivering elections that reflect the will of the people, Onuoha concluded. (NAN)
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