#EdoDecides: INEC Officials Intimidated To Bypass BIVAS –Observer

• Yiaga Africa reports intimidation of INEC officials in Edo State to bypass BVAS, contributing to delays and concerns about election integrity
• The organization highlights incidents of vote buying and disruptions by political thugs, urging INEC to adhere strictly to electoral guidelines

Yiaga Africa, a civil society organization, has raised concerns about reports of INEC officials being intimidated to bypass the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during the Edo State governorship election. The group attributed delays in the election process to logistical issues, such as a lack of vehicles to transport officials and materials and inadequate security escorts.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City, Dr. Aisha Abdullahi, Chairperson of Yiaga Africa’s 2024 Edo Election Mission, and Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, noted that although the election began peacefully, critical incidents could affect the integrity of the process.

Yiaga Africa highlighted several key issues, including:

1. Intimidation of INEC officials in Akoko-Edo LGA to bypass BVAS.
2. Missing result sheets at Polling Unit 1 in Ward 8, Orhionmwon LGA.
3. Disruptions by political thugs, who chased voters away from Polling Unit 5 in Uwessan Ward 2, Esan Central LGA.

These incidents raised concerns about voter suppression and potential election manipulation. Yiaga Africa urged INEC to strictly adhere to its guidelines and resist any attempts to compromise the electoral process.

Additionally, the organization commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for arresting suspected vote-buyers in Egor and Oredo LGAs and urged law enforcement to continue monitoring other areas. The Nigeria Police were also praised for disarming political thugs ahead of the election, contributing to a more secure environment on election day.