Just In: INEC uploads election results via BVAS

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun uploading some of the results of Saturday's election using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). The non-use of BVAS during the February 25 election led to a confidence crisis for the electoral body and criticisms from Nigerians and electoral officials. Despite citing technical glitches as the reason for not using BVAS for result transmission, many critics refused to accept the excuse. However, the commission promised to improve and make use of the device in the ongoing election.

Results from Ward 001, Polling Unit 039 in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa were uploaded via BVAS around 1:58 pm. In the House of Assembly election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled six votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 13 votes. Bayelsa is one of the states where there is no gubernatorial election but a state assembly election.

BVAS is a device used to register voters, accredit voters before voting on election day, and transmit election results to the INEC viewing portal after voting. It helps to scan the barcode or QR code on the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) or voter's register before voting. BVAS does not require internet connectivity during voting, only requiring it when transmitting election results to the INEC portal.

The use of BVAS during the ongoing election is expected to reduce the incidence of fraud and improve the integrity of the electoral process. Despite the successful upload of results via BVAS in some polling units, reports from other states suggest that there are still issues of violence, voter intimidation, and vote-buying. INEC and security agencies have been urged to remain vigilant in ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. The electoral commission has also assured Nigerians that it is working to resolve any technical issues that may arise during the voting process.