The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed allegations of BVAS machine smuggling in Edo State as unfounded, baseless, and lacking merit.
This response came after the All Progressives Congress (APC) submitted a petition to INEC on October 10, accusing members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of smuggling Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines and voter registers into INEC’s office in Benin.
In a statement issued on Friday in Benin, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, confirmed that following a thorough investigation, the claims were determined to be without merit.
Onuoha reassured the public that neither the BVAS machines nor the voter registers were compromised or unlawfully accessed by any political or external party, emphasizing INEC’s continued commitment to preserving the integrity of the electoral process.
“Recognising the seriousness of these claims, the commission conducted its investigation with the highest level of rigour, professionalism and impartiality.
“As an institution tasked with ensuring free, fair and credible elections, INEC will not tolerate any form of malpractice.
“The integrity of all electoral materials, including BVAS, remains fully intact and secure,” he said.
Onuoha stated that in compliance with a recent court order, INEC was ready to facilitate the inspection of election materials and would ensure transparency in the handling of the BVAS machines and adherence to the rule of law.
He said that the commission remained steadfast in its commitment to neutrality and excellence in electoral administration, and ensuring credible outcomes in all elections.
He urged all political parties to cooperate during the inspection process.
The REC also advised political actors to focus on strengthening democratic principles and avoid actions that could erode public confidence in the electoral system.