Influence of the Media on Bimodal Voter Accreditation System in 2023 General Election in Nigeria (a Study of Enugu and Ebonyi States Respectively)

ABSTRACT A study on influence of the Media on Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in 2023 general election in Nigeria; a study of Enugu and Ebonyi states general election. The specific objectives are examining the extent to which Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) enhance credible election in Enugu and Ebonyi states general election, determine reliability, sustainability in future election and the challenges due to its adoption. The study is of significance as it helps to fill the gap in understanding, focusing specifically on the relationship between technological, organizational and economic factors, and the sustainability of BVAS. Design of the study is survey method using electorates in Enugu and Ebonyi states as population. The sample size of the study is 400 this is determined using Taro yamane’s formula. However, questionnaire was used as the main instrument for data collection, while sources of data include primary and secondary sources. Data were presented in simple tables, analyzed accordingly using Chi-square statistical method. The results shows that application of BVAS enhances credible election in Nigeria and highly reliable in delivering credible results. However, among the challenges facing BVAS application corruption, lack of funding, insecurity, ownership influence and threat and suit. In conclusion, the innovation and deployment of technology in electoral process is a welcome and an idea that has to be harness. Therefore the study recommends for regular town halls meetings between INEC and the public members both at the rural and urban areas so as to address voter’s apathy among Nigerians. This should often be carried out before elections in order to encourage citizen’s participation in an election.