Editor
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed its authority to reassess outcomes proclaimed under coercion.
This assertion was articulated in a declaration issued on Sunday morning.
In the wake of the publication of results on its platform, various political factions have been asserting triumph.
In the declaration, Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Member of the Information and Voter Education Committee, emphasized that the commission would not hesitate to exercise its prerogative if circumstances demand.
Subsequent to the completion of voting yesterday, the Commission activated the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) platform and promptly uploaded the Polling Unit outcomes. The same results have been compiled from all 192 Wards. Moreover, aggregation has been finalized in most Local Government Areas, with designated officials already stationed at the collation center in Benin City or en route. “We are poised to initiate State-level consolidation.
“To dispel any ambiguity, the consolidation of results will progress in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022 and our regulations and guidelines for electoral operations. There exists a framework for addressing grievances during consolidation, inclusive of the authority to reevaluate outcomes declared under duress. The Commission will not shy away from exercising such authority when warranted.
“Official party agents, monitors, and members of the press must be granted unobstructed entry to all consolidation venues.”
The Commission urges security forces to sustain the same vigilance and professionalism that facilitated the peaceful conduct of the election as we wrap up the process.
