In a major breakthrough for the Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his legal team, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has now agreed to allow the inspection of the election materials and the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices used in the contentious Edo State governorship election. This decision follows public protests by members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP); and the intense pressure and legal efforts by Ighodalo’s team to challenge the election results, which they claim were manipulated by the ruling party.
The Commission had earlier refused attempts by Dr. Ighodalo to inspect the BVAS machines used during the September 21st Governorship election; despite being served with a court order.
In a letter dated October 8, 2024, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State, Dr. Anugbom Onuoha, refuted earlier allegations that the Commission had refused access to these critical materials. He emphasized that INEC remains committed to transparency and integrity in the electoral process and assured that the inspection is scheduled for October 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM at INEC Headquarters in Edo State.
This latest development is seen as a significant win for Ighodalo, who has maintained that only through full disclosure and an examination of the election materials can the integrity of the process be restored. With the inspection now officially sanctioned, Ighodalo’s legal team will gain access to the evidence they believe will expose irregularities and strengthen their case in the ongoing election petition tribunal. With only 48 hours left before the Saturday deadline to submit an election petition, it is hoped that the PDP will have enough time to inspect all election materials and file their case.
Speaking on this victory, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Anthony Aziegbemin, called it “a win for democracy.
Peoplesmind