Ekiti guber poll: Resolve all BVAS, network-related challenges now, Group tells INEC

The Case Tracking and Response Centre (CTRC), coordinated by Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly resolve all BVAS and network-related challenges, ensure
uninterrupted voting in affected polling units, and continue prioritizing vulnerable groups in the ongoing Ekiti State Governorship election.

The Centre, in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday in Akure said the reports of BVAS malfunctioning, inability to accredit elderly voters and network failures have been received from: Ado, Moba, Ikere, Emure, Efon, Ekiti West, Oye LGAs among others.

According to the statement, “these challenges resulted in delays in accreditation and voting, leading to
frustration and agitation among voters. In some locations, replacement BVAS devices were reported as corrective actions by INEC; however, network connectivity continues to slow the accreditation process.

“Several elderly voters who arrived early for accreditation were unable to complete the process after repeated BVAS attempts failed. These incidents raise concerns
regarding the accessibility of biometric systems for elderly populations in electoral processes.

“Strong participation of elderly voters, and a number of elderly voters who arrived early for accreditation were unable to complete the process of BVAS accreditation after numerous attempts failed.

“Reports of alleged vote-trading were received from Ado, Moba, Ikere, Emure,
Efon, Ekiti West, Oye, Ijero, Ikole and Ekiti East LGAs. Community Observers noted that in some polling units, individuals were allegedly paid after casting their votes, while party agents were reported to be distributing tickets or directing voters to nearby locations where payments ranging from 10,000 Naira to 20,000 Naira were allegedly being made.

“The Centre condemns all forms of vote trading and voter inducement, as these undermine the integrity of the electoral
process.”

“Security agencies are urged to intensify surveillance around polling units and surrounding areas, investigate reports of vote trading, ensure offenders are apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“Security agents and INEC are urged to
sustain professionalism and impartiality throughout the election. Political parties and their supporters are encouraged to refrain from all forms of vote trading, voter inducement, and intimidation, and to respect the rights of citizens to vote freely without coercion.

“Citizens are also called upon to continue conducting themselves peacefully, report incidents of electoral malpractice through appropriate channels, and remain patient where operational delays occur, allowing electoral officials to complete the process.

“The Centre equally urged citizens to stop
selling their votes as this is unlawful and unpatriotic.

“The Centre commends the electorates for the relatively peaceful conduct and particularly acknowledges the impressive participation of women, elderly persons and other vulnerable groups in the election.

“We urge all stakeholders to remain committed to peaceful participation
as voting continues across the State. Every eligible voter should be given the opportunity to cast their vote freely, safely, without intimidation and in an inclusive environment.

“The Centre will continue to monitor developments across Ekiti State and provide further updates as additional
reports are received. Together, let us safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and strengthen democracy in
Ekiti State.”