Ahead of the 2023 Elections in 100 days time, INEC says no going back on introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its loyalty and commitment to the people of Nigeria, declaring its determination to conduct a free and fair electoral exercise in the 2023 general elections.
In a message signed by its National Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, INEC noted that the deployment of technology will guarantee transparent accreditation and upload of polling unit results for citizens to view in real-time. Additionally, the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal is a deliberate effort to improve the nation’s electoral system; hence, there is no going back.
“As I have said repeatedly, the Commission’s allegiance is to Nigeria. Our loyalty is to Nigerians who want free, fair, credible and verifiable elections supported by technology, which guarantees transparent accreditation and upload of polling unit results for citizens to view in real-time on Election Day,” he stated.
The election management body noted that it will continue with its regular engagement with political parties, organised civil society, the media and other critical stakeholders.
This is as the Chairman stressed the Commission’s resolve to continuously update Nigerians on the progress made and challenges encountered, as the citizens deserve and have the right to know ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“Accordingly, in a couple of weeks, the Commission will start bi-weekly media briefings followed by weekly briefings as we get closer to the election. In the week leading to the election, there will be daily briefings.
I seize this opportunity to call on all citizens to participate fully in all electoral activities, particularly the ongoing display of the Register of Voters for claims and objections, as well as a collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs). I also call on political parties and political leaders to conduct their campaigns peacefully, eschewing divisiveness, rancour and violence,” the statement read.
He noted that elections are a multi-stakeholder activity, and the Commission will continue to play its part conscientiously and diligently while urging on stakeholders to play their own part so that citizens can all have the elections they yearn for.
Ibrahim Tanko Gaddafi
Ibrahim Gaddafi Tanko is a celebrated opinion writer, contributor to several frontline national tabloids in Nigeria and holds a Bachelor of Law Degree (LLB) from the Taraba State University. He has a huge flair for journalism with particular interest in issues concerning governance, politics, the legislature, humanitarian affairs, and climate change.
