Nigeria’s INEC Reports High Turnout in Voter Card Collection Ahead of Ondo Governorship Election
In a significant milestone, Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that 55,859 Permanent Voter Cards were collected in Ondo State over a five-day period, marking a substantial 62.2% of the available 89,777 cards. This remarkable turnout is a testament to the growing enthusiasm among citizens as the country prepares for the Ondo governorship election on November 16, 2024.
According to INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the collection exercise took place in all 203 wards across the state from October 17 to 21, 2024. What is more remarkable is that this feat represents the highest percentage of PVCs collected in such a short period since the Continuous Voter Registration process was introduced in 2015.
As the Commission looks back on the outstanding response, Olumekun expressed satisfaction with the high turnout, highlighting the dedication of new registrants, applicants for transfer, and those seeking replacement of lost or damaged cards. The optimism is palpable as Ondo State gears up for the elections, with INEC determined to make the voting process as inclusive as possible.
While the initial five-day collection exercise may be over, INEC has extended the initiative to its 18 LGA offices across Ondo State. Voters now have an opportunity to collect their PVCs in person from these offices from October 23 to 29, 2024, between 9 am and 5 pm, including weekends. INEC has also made available detailed information on the locations of these LGA offices on its website.
As the election day draws near, INEC has reiterated its policy that voter cards will only be collected in person and not by proxy, emphasizing the importance of individual participation in this critical exercise. With its strong push to enhance democratic participation, INEC invites the remaining voters to pick up their PVCs, underlining the significance of their involvement in shaping the future of Ondo State.
