The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically denied reports suggesting that it intends to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs).
The commission labeled the report as “incorrect,” emphasizing that there is no such plan in place.
The report, which claimed that INEC was considering a policy to withdraw and destroy PVCs left uncollected for over a decade, referred to a set of recommendations following the review of the 2023 general elections.
It suggested that the move was in response to the persistent issue of unclaimed PVCs, including many dating back to 2015.
INEC clarified that the PVC collection process, which began on December 12, 2022, was extended until February 5, 2023, due to the low rate of collection.
The commission also devolved collection efforts to local wards to make the process more accessible.
Despite challenges, INEC collaborated with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to facilitate the collection of PVCs by providing an online platform to help voters locate their cards.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), INEC urged the public to disregard the false report, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring all voters can access their PVCs.
