Avoid polling units without PVC_ INEC warns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning to individuals without Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to avoid polling stations during the November 16 gubernatorial election in Ondo State.

Prof. Kunle Ajayi, the INEC National Commissioner overseeing Ondo, Ogun, and Osun States, made the announcement in Akure while presenting digital copies of the voter register to political parties. He emphasized the commission’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, credible, and inclusive election, noting that 2,053,006 eligible voters are registered.

Ajayi urged political party representatives to encourage their supporters to collect their PVCs, stating that distribution of newly printed cards and previously uncollected PVCs will start on Thursday. He stressed that PVC collection must be done in person, as proxy collection is illegal. Anyone found with more than one voter card will face legal consequences.

He also appealed to organizations focused on Persons With Disabilities (PWD) to assist in encouraging PWDs to collect their PVCs, assuring that provisions for assistive devices will ensure a smooth voting experience.

Resident Electoral Commissioner Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola emphasized the importance of publishing the voter register as a vital step in ensuring electoral transparency and credibility. She called on all stakeholders to remain vigilant in protecting the integrity of the electoral process and encouraged voters to participate freely, assuring them their votes will count.

Ade Adetimehin, Chairman of the Ondo APC, praised INEC for the timely presentation of the voter register, which will allow political parties to mobilize and educate their supporters ahead of the election. He stated, “It’s now our duty as political parties to go back to all 3,936 polling units to canvass for their votes.”