The Chairman of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, has assured that using alternative forms of identification such as a Driver’s License, International Passport, and government-issued Staff IDs will not enable multiple voting in the upcoming elections.
During a media briefing at the Commission’s headquarters in Abeokuta, Mr. Osibodu clarified that these alternative IDs are intended solely for verification and identification purposes.
They aim to assist individuals who have lost or misplaced their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) but are already listed on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Voters’ Register.
“The primary purpose of the PVC is for verification and identification of voters through the BVAS machine, ensuring details on the card and picture match information on the INEC Voters’ Register,” he explained.
The OGSIEC Chairman further emphasized that allowing valid alternative identification is meant to remove any barriers to voting and to encourage civic participation.
“OGSIEC cannot determine the outcome of the elections but can only count votes and announce results,” he stated, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to a transparent, credible, and fair election process.
In preparation for the polls, he added that OGSIEC has organized comprehensive training sessions for Electoral and Returning Officers. Additional training for Presiding Officers, Poll Clerks, and Poll Orderly will take place over the weekend at various centers across the state.
Mr. Osibodu also urged political parties to focus on active campaigning and cautioned against any attempts to disrupt the election.
He assured that security personnel would be deployed to maintain a safe and conducive environment for all citizens to exercise their voting rights.
