Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed allegations of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machine smuggling in Edo State.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) had in a petition to INEC on October 10 alleged that Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members smuggled BVAS machines and voter registers into the commission’s office in Benin City.
However, in a statement issued on Friday in Benin City, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, said the commission had completed its investigation into the allegations and found them to be baseless, unsubstantiated, and without merit.
He reassured the people of the state that at no time were BVAS machines or voter registers compromised or unlawfully accessed by any political party or external party.
He said that INEC remained fully committed to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
The REC said: “Recognising the seriousness of these claims, the commission conducted its investigation with the highest level of rigour, professionalism, and impartiality.
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“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.”
Onuoha pointed out that 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 urged all political parties to cooperate with the commission 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.
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