As the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State approaches, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly warned that only individuals with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will be permitted to vote. People without PVCs are advised to stay away from polling centers during the election.
This warning was issued by Kunle Ajayi, INEC’s National Commissioner overseeing Ondo, Ogun, and Osun States, during the presentation of soft copies of the voter register to political parties on Tuesday in Akure. Mr. Ajayi stressed the commission’s commitment to conducting a “free, fair, credible, and inclusive election,” noting that a total of 2,053,006 eligible voters were registered for the exercise.
Speaking on the distribution of PVCs, Mr. Ajayi announced that it would begin on Thursday, encompassing both newly printed PVCs and those that remained uncollected from previous Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercises. He urged political parties, civil society organizations, and the media to encourage registered voters to collect their PVCs.
“Because without the PVC, nobody would be allowed to vote,” Mr. Ajayi reiterated. He further warned that PVC collection would not be allowed by proxy, emphasizing that anyone found in possession of more than one PVC would face legal consequences.
Special provisions have also been made for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). Mr. Ajayi called on PWD-focused civil society organizations (CSOs) and groups to ensure that all PWDs are mobilized to collect their PVCs. He added that assistive devices would be provided to ensure a smooth voting experience for PWDs during the election.
Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, emphasized the significance of the voter register, stating that it serves as a “powerful reminder that the future of Ondo State is in the hands of its people.” Ms. Babalola urged all eligible voters to participate in the election, assuring them that their choices would be respected, and their votes would count.
“I therefore use this medium to encourage voters in Ondo State to come out to cast their votes freely with the assurance that their choices are respected and their votes will count,” she added.
Ade Adetimehin, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, commended INEC for the timely release of the voter register, underscoring its importance in ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process.
