BVAS or Not

The challenges experienced in using INEC’s Bimodal Voter Accreditation System at the Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun gubernatorial elections raise concerns about it being sufficient for nationwide voting. Is Nigeria ready for BVAS-only elections?

Written by Chike Ibewuike

Feb 25, 2023

Graphics by Onyinye Dike / THE REPUBLIC

Since its return to democracy in 1999, Nigeria’s electoral process can be said to be a progressive experiment by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as each election cycle sees the electoral management body introduce new technological elements to improve its ability to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.

Nigeria has come a long way from the open ballot system, used before 2007, to the permanent voter’s card and electronic voter’s register in 2011. However, these features pale in comparison to the changes heralded by the Electoral Act of 2022. Outside addressing challenges like logistical problems and the lack of inclusivity for persons with disability, the Electoral Act licenses INEC to provide ballot boxes, electronic voting machines, or any other voting devices for the conduct of elections. The legislation also sees the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Registration System (BVAS), which has already received significant attention, but deserves careful examination as the outcome of the 2023 elections depends on its implementation.

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About the Author

Chike Ibewuike

is a writer, researcher, and public policy aficionado. He is an alumnus of the pioneer class of #FixPolitics' School of Politics, Policy, and Governance.

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BVAS or Not