The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically dismissed allegations that it plans to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) dating back to the 2015 voter registration. The clarification comes amidst public outcry following a report in a national newspaper suggesting the contrary.
In a strongly-worded statement issued on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, INEC described the report as “incorrect” and urged Nigerians to disregard it entirely.
“Our attention has been drawn to a newspaper report that the Commission is contemplating the destruction of over six million uncollected Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) going back to the 2015 voter registration,” the statement read. “The report is incorrect. At no time did the Commission contemplate the destruction of uncollected PVCs. The public is advised to discountenance the story.”
INEC’s Technological Shift in Voting
As Nigeria prepares for future elections, INEC has unveiled innovative measures to address challenges associated with voter accreditation and PVC collection. During a quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja last month, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu outlined the commission’s vision for a more technologically advanced electoral process.
“The Commission believes that with the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the use of PVCs as the sole means of identification for voter accreditation on Election Day should be reviewed,” Prof. Yakubu stated.
This groundbreaking recommendation proposes the use of computer-generated voting slips or downloadable accreditation proofs, effectively providing an alternative for voters without PVCs. According to Yakubu, this approach will reduce costs and tackle recurring issues such as PVC collection delays and voter card purchasing—a practice that has plagued the credibility of elections in the past.
“Those who already have PVCs can still use them to vote,” Yakubu emphasized, “but going forward, computer-generated slips issued to the voter or even downloaded from the Commission’s website will suffice for voter accreditation. This will not only save costs but also eliminate the diabolical practice of buying up the cards from voters in order to disenfranchise them.”
Uncollected PVCs and the Way Forward
The issue of uncollected PVCs has long been a thorn in Nigeria’s electoral process. Reports suggest that millions of PVCs issued during voter registration drives from 2015 to date remain unclaimed. While INEC has taken measures to encourage collection, the response from eligible voters has been inconsistent.
During the recent review of its 2023 general election processes, a key stakeholder suggested that INEC consider withdrawing PVCs that have remained uncollected for years. However, no consensus was reached on implementing such a drastic measure.
Prof. Yakubu reiterated that INEC’s focus remains on inclusivity and transparency. The introduction of BVAS and alternative accreditation methods signals the Commission’s commitment to addressing historical bottlenecks in the system.
The PVC Controversy: Public Concerns and Political Implications
The controversy surrounding PVCs highlights broader challenges in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. Over the years, allegations of voter suppression, election rigging, and manipulation of PVCs have marred the credibility of electoral outcomes. Critics argue that introducing computer-generated slips could further complicate an already fragile system, citing fears of cybersecurity risks and potential disenfranchisement of rural voters who may lack digital literacy.
Nevertheless, INEC has assured stakeholders that the shift toward digitalization will be gradual and carefully implemented. Prof. Yakubu emphasized that public awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagement will form a critical part of the transition process.
“This is not about replacing one challenge with another,” he explained. “It’s about evolving to meet the demands of modern democracy while ensuring no voter is left behind.”
Historical Context and Stakeholder Reactions
Since its establishment in 1998, INEC has faced criticism for inefficiencies in voter registration and PVC distribution. While the introduction of BVAS in the 2023 elections was widely praised as a technological leap, critics highlighted instances where the system failed due to technical glitches.
Political analysts argue that INEC’s move to consider digital accreditation options reflects its acknowledgment of evolving global electoral practices. However, some stakeholders remain skeptical about the feasibility of fully digital elections in Nigeria, given infrastructural and logistical challenges.
A member of a prominent civil society group welcomed INEC’s clarification on the alleged PVC destruction but expressed reservations about its proposed alternatives. “It’s good that INEC is addressing this misinformation head-on,” the activist said. “However, they must ensure that any new system is foolproof and inclusive, particularly for marginalized communities.”
A Call for Public Trust
As INEC gears up for subsequent elections, restoring public trust remains a top priority. The commission has urged Nigerians to rely on verified information and avoid falling prey to sensational reports.
“INEC must walk a tightrope between innovation and trust-building,” said a political commentator. “While their intentions are commendable, they must ensure transparency at every stage.”
In the face of mounting scrutiny, Prof. Yakubu and his team remain resolute in their commitment to reforming Nigeria’s electoral process. Whether through traditional PVCs or digital slips, INEC’s ultimate goal is to ensure that every eligible Nigerian has the opportunity to vote.
“Our mission is to strengthen democracy by making elections accessible, transparent, and credible,” Yakubu concluded. “No Nigerian should feel excluded from this process.”
