From Moshood Karim
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has responded to allegations that it denied political parties access to electoral materials used in the recently concluded Edo State governorship election.
The accusations surfaced from the legal team of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, who claimed that INEC had been delaying their ability to inspect materials, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which they require to support their petition before the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal.
In a statement signed by Dr. Anugbum Onuoha and made available to Uptown Press on Wednesday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State, INEC strongly refuted the claims, describing them as “baseless and misleading.”
Onuoha stressed that neither he nor any INEC official had obstructed political parties or their representatives from accessing election materials. He reiterated INEC’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and integrity throughout the electoral process.
“The inspection of election materials is a fundamental right of all parties involved in election petitions, and we are legally mandated to facilitate this process,” Onuoha stated.
He reassured the public that INEC is fully aware of its legal responsibilities and is dedicated to supporting the lawful processes that allow parties to seek redress through the courts.
To further underscore INEC’s commitment to transparency, Onuoha announced that the inspection of the election materials, including BVAS devices, has been scheduled for October 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the INEC Headquarters in Edo State.
All political parties and their representatives have been invited to participate in the exercise according to legal procedures.
“Any political party or candidate seeking to inspect these materials has been, and will continue to be, granted access, provided they follow the proper procedures as outlined by the Election Tribunal and relevant legal frameworks,” Onuoha affirmed.
He called on stakeholders and the public to disregard misinformation and assured them of INEC’s loyalty to the Nigerian people, the Constitution, and the rule of law.
INEC, Onuoha concluded, remains committed to ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and accountable, and any party wishing to engage with INEC on this matter is encouraged to do so through appropriate legal channels.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
