The Abia State Government has alerted residents, especially those in rural areas, about alleged moves by politicians to buy Permanent Voter Card (PVC) details from villagers for as little as ₦10,000.
The government said the act is being disguised as an empowerment programme involving the creation of a fake e-wallet system.
According to a statement signed on Monday night by Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti, these politicians are deploying agents to local communities to collect PVC information from unsuspecting citizens.
The government warned that the real intention is to compromise the authenticity of the PVCs and make the owners ineligible to vote during the 2027 general elections.
“This criminal plan is irresponsible and will not be tolerated,” the statement read. “Anyone caught, no matter how highly placed, will face serious consequences.”
Mr. Ekeoma noted that the Abia State Government already runs empowerment programmes that do not require voters’ data or political loyalty.
He urged residents to reject any person or group requesting their PVC details or other personal information.
The government’s warning comes amid rising concerns nationwide about voter suppression tactics ahead of the 2027 polls.
