Ayobamiji Komolafe 
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied allegations that it obstructed political parties from inspecting election materials in the just concluded Edo State gubernatorial election held on Saturday, September 21.
INEC’s comment was in reaction to the allegation that the electoral umpire prevented inspection of the BVAS machines, used in the state governorship election.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Anugbum Onuoha dismissed the claims as baseless and misleading.
The denial comes after the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo accused INEC of failing to comply with a court order that granted access to the election materials.
However, Onuoha clarified that the commission had scheduled the inspection for Wednesday at INEC’s headquarters in Benin, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
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“The allegations suggesting that I have refused political parties access to inspect the BVAS devices and other election materials are completely devoid of truth,” Onuoha said.
He reiterated that INEC, under his leadership, remains committed to upholding transparency, fairness, and the integrity of the electoral process.
Onuoha emphasized that the inspection of election materials is a fundamental right of political parties involved in election petitions.
He confirmed that INEC is mandated by law to facilitate the process.
Onuoha added that neither he nor any INEC official obstructed any party from accessing the materials.
“We understand the legal importance of allowing political parties to inspect the election materials.
We are fully supportive of their right to seek redress through the courts,” Onuoha added.
He assured all political parties and their representatives that the scheduled inspection would proceed as planned, provided they follow the proper legal procedures outlined by the election petition tribunal.
Onuoha also urged stakeholders and the public to disregard what he termed as “misinformation,” stressing that INEC’s commitment is to the Nigerian people, the Constitution, and the rule of law.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to ensuring a transparent and accountable electoral process.
The REC further invited any parties wishing to engage with his office regarding the inspection to do so through the appropriate legal channels, ensuring smooth and lawful proceedings.
