INEC Extends Deadline For Collection Of Voters Cards
The Indepedent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has extended deadline for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards by eligible registrants
According to a statement by the National Commissioner Festus Okoye and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, the exercise which is expected to be concluded on Sunday 22nd January, 2023 has been extended by one week and would continue until Sunday 29th January 2023.
The Commission stated that “it was encouraged by the turnout of registered voters and the surge in the number of collected PVCs across the country. “
Disciplinary action
INEC which admitted rife allegation of extortion of prospective voters anxious to pick their PVCs said it has commenced its investigation and vowed that those found culpable would be brought to book.
Okoye equally admitted allegations of discriminatory issuance of PVCs in some locations and assured Nigerians that Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) have been directed to ensure that no such practices occur nationwide and take immediate disciplinary action against violators.
Collection schedule
At the moment, the period of collection is 9.00am – 3.00pm daily (including Saturdays and Sundays).
As a result of this extension, INEC has made a consequential adjustment of the collection by location as follows:
“Collection at Registration Area (Ward) level is extended by one a week from Monday 16th – Sunday 22nd January 2023.
“Collection at Local Government level will resume on Monday 23rd – Sunday 29th January 2023.
“Meanwhile, the Commission is investigating allegations of extortion by officials at some of the collection centres and inducement by some unscrupulous voters to circumvent processes in order to obtain their PVCs. Those found culpable will be made to face disciplinary action and/or prosecution.
“For the record, the Commission has printed 13,868,441 PVCs for all new valid registrants as well as applicants for transfer or replacement of cards. Nevertheless, issuing officers should compile any complaints about non-availability of cards and forward them to their immediate supervisors for the attention of Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) who shall compile and forward them for necessary action.
“The Commission once again appreciates the patience and perseverance of citizens as we continue to finetune our process to make the collection of PVCs easier.”
Tribune/Olusola Akintonde
