Edo Decides 2024: BVAS Malfunctions Disrupt Voting in Benin

Voting in Benin faced disruptions due to malfunctioning Biamodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines at Ikpoba Okha Ward 7, Unit 3. The voting process commenced at 8 a.m. but was halted shortly after due to the equipment failure.

The unit located within Ologboshere Primary School has 838 registered voters. While issues arose at Unit 39, voting proceeded smoothly in other units within the same polling station. An INEC ad hoc official, confirmed that the commission was notified about the faulty machines and that they were awaiting replacements to prevent further disruption.

Mrs. Helen Osagie, an elderly voter, expressed her concern over the delay after arriving at the unit at 7 a.m. She praised the peaceful atmosphere but urged INEC to act quickly to replace the malfunctioning machines to avoid disenfranchising voters.

Voter Paul Eromosele also shared his experience, noting that the process had been peaceful and stress-free so far, hoping that the elections would conclude smoothly.