Former Minister Requests BVAS Data from INEC for Off-Cycle Polls

• Osita Chidoka submits a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to INEC for BVAS accreditation data in 2023 elections
• Chidoka prepared to pursue legal action if INEC doesn’t respond within the stipulated seven-day period under FOI law

Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation, has submitted a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking comprehensive accreditation data from the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines used in the recently conducted 2023 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states. Chidoka is seeking transparency and justice and has stated his determination to pursue legal action if necessary.

The FOI request was officially received and acknowledged by INEC. If INEC does not respond substantively within the seven-day period stipulated by law, Chidoka has expressed readiness to initiate legal proceedings, with lawyers on standby to pursue legal enforcement of his right to information under the FOIA.

Rotimi Lawrence Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC chairman, confirmed the receipt of the request, stating that the commission would act in accordance with the law.

PDP Warns of Anarchy if Justice Eludes People in Off-Cycle Polls

The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Amb Umar Damagum, has expressed concern that Nigeria could descend into anarchy if justice continues to elude the people during off-cycle elections. In a press conference at the party headquarters following the conclusion of off-season elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states, Damagum decried the violence, intimidation, and high-handedness characterizing the elections.

Damagum, flanked by other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), stated that the election outcomes confirmed the derailment of the electoral body from its intended path. He lamented the loss of confidence in the electoral process, emphasizing that voters were disenfranchised due to the complicity of some agencies supposed to ensure fair elections.

He warned of the potential for anarchy if justice continues to be elusive, expressing doubts about the fairness of the lawful means available. Damagum urged those who felt cheated in the elections to pursue their grievances through legal channels, despite concerns about the dispensation of justice.

Regarding the party’s internal situation, Damagum assured members of the NWC’s commitment to maintaining the party’s unity. He called on members to reflect on their roles before, during, and after the elections and to exercise caution in their statements, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection for the party’s cohesion.