The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has completed the re-configuration of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines in preparation for the upcoming state elections on March 18. BVAS machines were used for the February 25 presidential and National Assembly elections but were reconfigured to ensure they’re suitable for state elections.
To ensure a smooth operation, INEC officials will deploy the sensitive election materials, including the BVAS machines, to their state offices before moving them to local governments, wards, and polling units on election day. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will lead the airlift of the machines for security reasons.
An INEC official stated, “The early deployment from Wednesday to the states was to make sure that there are no lapses or delays in their deployment. Materials would be taken to discreet locations in states and the LGAs, wards, and polling units.”
It’s worth noting that the governorship election will be held in 28 states, while the state assembly election will be held across the country. The state elections were postponed by one week due to a delay, but with the BVAS machines reconfigured and ready for deployment, INEC is prepared for a successful election process.
