Protest And Counter-Protest Erupt At INEC Hqtr Over BVAS Transparency
By Omonu YG Nelson
A group of Nigerians, under the auspices of the Concerned Kogi Citizens’ Forum, stormed the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday, demanding transparency in the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in the Kogi State governorship election.
*Protesters Allege Fraud and Manipulation*
The protesters, led by Isaiah Davies Ijele, bore placards with inscriptions such as “Judges, BVAS matters” and “INEC, stop the BVAS fraud NOW.” They alleged fraud and accused INEC of manipulating the election results.
*Tribunal Decision and Appeal*
The protest comes after the Kogi State election tribunal dismissed a petition by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) challenging the poll results, citing lack of evidence. The SDP candidate, Muritala Ajaka, has appealed the decision, alleging fraud.
*Supreme Court Ruling*
The Supreme Court had earlier upheld Ajaka’s request to inspect the BVAS materials used in the election, ordering INEC to tender the BVAS devices and documents containing their identification users and a summary of the devices.
*Quotes from Protest Leaders*
“We want INEC to release the BVAS report to prove the election was free and fair,” said Davies. “In Kogi State, for instance, the accreditation process would involve 100 voters. However, some university professors hired by INEC as returning officers have been observed to announce election result figures that exceed the number of voters accredited. This constitutes electoral fraud.”
*Counter-Protest by ETAC*
The Election Transparency Advocacy Coalition (ETAC), led by Barrister Peter Ugwuoke, countered with a protest of their own, backing INEC and the All Progressives Congress (APC). “The election in Kogi State was free, fair, and credible. We urge the losers to accept the outcome of the election and congratulate the winner, rather than trying to discredit the election and cause chaos in the state.”