INEC Faces Challenges as 14 Million PVCs Remain Uncollected Ahead of Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is encountering significant challenges in distributing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as it prepares for the presidential election scheduled for January 16. Reports indicate that more than 14 million PVCs remain uncollected, raising serious concerns about voter participation in what is poised to be a critical election for Nigeria.

Ongoing investigations reveal that while the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise successfully attracted millions of new registrants, a staggering number of produced PVCs are still waiting to be collected. INEC's records show that during the last CVR, approximately 10.77 million new voters were registered, yet about 6.26 million PVCs went uncollected prior to the 2023 general elections. This troubling trend could disenfranchise a substantial segment of the electorate.

Particularly affected are states such as Plateau, Taraba, Jigawa, Benue, and Bayelsa, where thousands of PVCs await collection. Additionally, states like Sokoto, Nasarawa, Zamfara, and Yobe have reported a significant increase in voter populations, further complicating the distribution efforts. Notably, Kano has yet to compile its collection figures, while Borno, Bauchi, and Kebbi continue to withhold vital data that could shed light on the scope of the issue.

In light of these challenges, INEC is ramping up its mobilization efforts to ensure that eligible voters are informed and encouraged to collect their PVCs before the impending election. The commission's ability to effectively address the distribution of these cards is critical to the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in shaping Nigeria's future.