In a strategic move ahead of the Edo State governorship election scheduled for next week, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a three-day extension for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). This decision came after an interactive meeting held on Wednesday at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City. The extension is aimed at enabling more eligible voters to participate in the crucial election process.
The meeting, a critical step in INEC’s electoral preparations, brought together key stakeholders, including political party chairmen, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, security agencies, and members of the media. The Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, alongside the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, addressed the attendees, responding to concerns related to the electoral process and security measures. The stakeholders’ primary demand was the extension of the PVC collection window, recognizing the importance of allowing more citizens to exercise their right to vote.
In response to this collective appeal, INEC granted a three-day extension for the collection of PVCs, from Friday, September 13, to Sunday, September 15, 2024. Voters can now collect their cards at INEC offices in all 18 Local Government Areas of Edo State between 9 am and 5 pm daily. This extension provides a last-minute opportunity for registered voters who have not yet collected their PVCs to do so and participate in the upcoming election.
The Commission emphasized that the extension aligns with its commitment to ensuring no eligible voter is disenfranchised. However, INEC reaffirmed its policy that PVC collection by proxy will not be permitted, meaning only registered voters can collect their cards in person.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement, urged all registered voters who have yet to claim their PVCs to seize this opportunity. “This extension is designed to cater to those who may have faced challenges in collecting their cards earlier. We appeal to all those affected to take full advantage of this window,” Olumekun said.
As the Edo State governorship election approaches, this extension is seen as a vital step to ensure greater voter participation. The extension also follows INEC’s previous efforts to facilitate a transparent and inclusive electoral process, emphasizing the importance of citizen involvement in shaping the political future of Edo State.
The governorship election in Edo State is expected to be highly competitive, with political parties vying for the governorship seat. The extended window for PVC collection provides an opportunity for citizens to actively participate and influence the outcome of this important democratic exercise.
As security concerns also dominate discussions in the lead-up to the election, the presence of the Inspector-General of Police at the stakeholder meeting underscored the government’s commitment to a peaceful electoral process. Kayode Egbetokun assured all parties that adequate security measures would be in place to safeguard voters and maintain order throughout the election period.
With the extension now in place, all eyes are on the voters to ensure they collect their PVCs and make their voices heard at the polls. The call for responsible civic engagement is critical, and INEC remains focused on delivering a credible and transparent election process that reflects the will of the people.
Voters are encouraged to visit their respective INEC offices and ensure they are prepared for the governorship election that will shape the next political chapter of Edo State.
