In a major development in the ongoing Edo State governorship election tribunal, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has surrendered the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines used in the September 21, 2024 election.
This follows a subpoena obtained by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing widespread over-voting.
BVAS Machines Admitted as Evidence
The tribunal has now admitted the BVAS machines as evidence, a move that could be pivotal in determining the authenticity of the election results. PDP alleges that the total votes declared by INEC surpassed the number of accredited voters in several polling units, raising concerns over electoral fraud.
During Thursday’s hearing, PDP witnesses testified that results uploaded on INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IREV) differed from those recorded at the polling units and ward levels. Additionally, certified true copies of election documents presented by PDP reportedly showed discrepancies in accreditation figures.
Legal Implications
Legal experts believe the BVAS data could significantly impact the case, as the Supreme Court has previously ruled that BVAS is the primary and most reliable source of voter accreditation records. The tribunal’s decision to accept the BVAS machines as evidence strengthens PDP’s argument and could influence the final verdict on the election’s credibility.
With this latest development, all eyes are now on the tribunal as it reviews the evidence in what could be a landmark ruling for electoral integrity in Nigeria.