The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Edo State of refusing to grant access to crucial electoral materials, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines, used in the September 21, 2024, governorship election. This, according to the PDP, violates a court order secured by its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
In a statement, PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba alleged that INEC officials are colluding with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to alter election data, including BVAS records and ballot papers, in favor of the defeated APC candidate. The party claims INEC has ignored a tribunal ruling mandating the release of the election materials for inspection.
Meanwhile, APC supporters gathered outside the INEC office in Benin City, protesting what they allege is a plot by Ighodalo and the PDP to manipulate the election results ahead of the tribunal hearing.
The PDP warned that INEC’s actions are raising tensions, urging Nigerians and the international community to take note of what they describe as a “pattern of electoral manipulation” by INEC and the APC.
The PDP is pressing INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu to immediately release the materials to avoid further damage to the commission’s credibility.
On the other hand, the PDP’s legal team reported that they were unable to gain access to the BVAS machines, despite a court order, with INEC citing scheduling issues.
