The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Edo has firmly denied any allegations of obstructing political parties from inspecting the election materials and BVAS machines used during the recent governorship election.
In a statement issued in Benin on Wednesday, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, emphasized that claims suggesting the commission hindered the inspection process are baseless, misleading, and completely false.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and its gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, had accused INEC of failing to comply with a court order that permitted the inspection of the election materials.
In his response, Onuoha explained that INEC had proactively scheduled Wednesday for the inspection of the materials at its headquarters in Benin, showcasing their commitment to transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
He stated, “The attention of INEC and my office has been drawn to certain unfounded allegations suggesting that I have refused political parties and their representatives’ access to inspect the BVAS devices and other election materials used during the recent elections.”
Onuoha asserted, “We wish to categorically state that these allegations are baseless, misleading, and completely devoid of truth.” He affirmed that under his leadership, INEC in Edo is devoted to upholding the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and integrity throughout all electoral processes.
Furthermore, Onuoha highlighted that the inspection of election materials is a fundamental right of all political parties involved in election petitions, and it is a responsibility mandated by law for INEC to facilitate this process. He clarified that neither he nor any official in his office has ever obstructed or denied any political party or their representatives access to inspect the materials utilized in the recent elections.
“INEC is fully aware of the legal implications of such actions, and we are dedicated to supporting the lawful processes that enable parties to seek redress in the courts,” he noted. He reiterated that the inspection of election materials, including the BVAS devices, has been formally scheduled for Wednesday (today) at the INEC Headquarters in Benin.
“All political parties and their representatives are invited to participate in this exercise, as per the legal procedures, to ensure transparency and adherence to the rule of law,” he added.
Onuoha assured political parties and candidates seeking to inspect the materials of unhindered access, provided they follow the proper procedures outlined by the election petition tribunal and relevant legal frameworks. He expressed disappointment that such unfounded accusations have circulated without any evidence or appropriate engagement with his office.
“I urge all stakeholders and the general public to disregard such misinformation. As a Commission, our loyalty remains to the Nigerian people, the Constitution, and the rule of law,” he stated. He emphasized that INEC, as an institution, stands for transparency and is committed to ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and accountable.
Additionally, the REC encouraged any parties wishing to engage with his office regarding the inspection of materials to do so through the appropriate legal channels, assuring them of his full cooperation.