Dr. Anugbum Onuoha Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Edo State in a statement signed by him said his attention has been drawn to allegations that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and his office as the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State have refused political parties and the representatives access to inspect the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices and other election materials used during the recent elections.
He said, "I wish to categorically state that these allegations are baseless, misleading, and completely devoid of truth. INEC, under my leadership in Edo State, remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and integrity in all electoral processes. The inspection of election materials is a fundamental right of all parnes involved in election petitions, and its a process that we are mandated by law to facilitate."
"At no time have | or any official in my office obstructed or denied any political party or their representatives access to inspect the materials used in the last 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 said.
He further said "In furtherance of this commitment, | wish to inform the public that the inspection of the election materials, including the BVAS devices, has been formally scheduled to take place tomorrow, October 9, 2024, at 10.00 AM at the INEC Headquarters in Edo State. All political partes 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.
The REC how we added that 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.
"It is, therefore, unfortunate that these baseless accusations have been circulated without any evidence or proper engagement with my 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 said.
He reiterates that "INEC, as an institution, stands for transparency, and we are fully committed to ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and accountable. Any party wishing to engage with my office regarding the inspection of materials is encouraged to do so through the appropriate legal channels, and | assure them of our full cooperation."
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