In a bid to address longstanding electoral challenges, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering a groundbreaking policy to withdraw and destroy uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) that have remained in its possession for up to a decade. This decision stems from a detailed review of the 2023 general elections and the persistent issue of unclaimed voter cards.
A Mountain of Uncollected PVCs
As of the 2023 elections, over six million PVCs remained uncollected, some dating as far back as 2015. Despite INEC’s efforts to facilitate collection—including extended deadlines, decentralized distribution points, and partnerships with civil society organizations—millions of cards were left untouched by registered voters.
INEC officials explained that these unclaimed cards are clogging the voter management system, hindering efficiency. To tackle this, a recommendation was made to destroy PVCs issued in 2015 and earlier, as it’s unlikely their owners will claim them.
Modernizing Nigeria’s Voting System
As part of its forward-looking reforms, INEC is also exploring ways to modernize Nigeria’s electoral process. With the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), PVCs may no longer be essential for voter accreditation. Instead, voters could be identified using digital registration slips or other credentials, reducing reliance on physical cards.
However, implementing this change will require amendments to Section 47(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which currently mandates the presentation of PVCs during accreditation and voting.
Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders
The proposal to destroy unclaimed PVCs has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. The Labour Party has expressed support, stating that decluttering the voters’ register is necessary, particularly if some registered voters are deceased or their details were duplicated.
On the other hand, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have voiced concerns. The PDP questioned the rationale behind destroying cards produced with taxpayers’ money, accusing INEC of failing to inspire public confidence. The NNPP argued that awareness campaigns should be prioritized over destruction, as destroying the cards could lead to unnecessary expenses if their owners later come forward.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal experts are also divided on the matter. While some Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) back INEC’s plan, citing the cards’ irrelevance after years of neglect, others believe the commission should intensify efforts to locate rightful owners rather than discarding the PVCs.
One prominent advocate argued, “Destroying the cards is logical if they remain unclaimed for years. Many of these cards could belong to non-existent or deceased individuals. However, awareness campaigns would ensure that no legitimate voter is disenfranchised.”
The Road Ahead
As INEC grapples with these challenges, it’s clear that reforms are on the horizon. Beyond addressing uncollected PVCs, the commission’s broader modernization agenda, including diaspora voting and the gradual phasing out of PVCs, aims to streamline the electoral process and enhance voter accessibility.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for more updates as Nigeria’s electoral landscape evolves.
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