INEC’s Proposal to Destroy Over Six Million Uncollected PVCs Draws Mixed Reactions from Political Parties, Legal Experts, and Stakeholders Amid Calls for Electoral Reforms and Public Awareness
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering destroying over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a move aimed at decluttering its voter management system. This recommendation is part of 208 proposals from the commission’s review of the 2023 general elections.
The Rationale Behind the Move
INEC revealed that many of these uncollected PVCs date as far back as 2015, raising concerns about their relevance. Despite multiple collection windows, including extensions in 2023, millions of PVCs remain unclaimed. According to INEC, retaining these cards poses logistical challenges and contributes to inefficiencies.
The commission’s review suggested withdrawing PVCs uncollected for extended periods, especially those issued in 2015. This proposal comes alongside plans to modernize Nigeria’s electoral system, including introducing diaspora voting and phasing out PVCs in favor of digital voter accreditation through the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
Political Parties React
INEC’s plan has divided political parties:
- Labour Party: National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, supports the initiative, citing the need to clear irregularities and outdated registrations.
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP): Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, criticized the plan, accusing INEC of using it to distract Nigerians from electoral credibility issues.
- New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP): Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, urged caution, highlighting the financial waste of destroying PVCs and re-registering voters.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Prominent Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) offered varying opinions:
- Prof. Itse Sagay: Advocated destruction, suggesting many uncollected PVCs result from fraudulent registrations.
- Sam Erugo: Supported INEC, arguing the cards’ prolonged disuse justifies their disposal.
- Paul Obi: Opposed the move, calling for enhanced public awareness campaigns to encourage collection instead.
The Path Ahead
INEC has also proposed amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 to eliminate the mandatory presentation of PVCs at polling units, potentially replacing them with digital slips or biometric verification.
The commission’s bold steps have sparked debates over voter inclusion, electoral modernization, and public trust. As Nigerians await the next general elections, these developments could shape the future of voting in the country.
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