The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a one-week extension for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). This decision was communicated by Festus Okoye, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, on Saturday. This marks the second extension of the PVC collection period, reflecting the progress observed thus far.
In a statement, Okoye noted that the Commission convened on Saturday, January 29, 2023, following a meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The discussions included various issues, particularly the reports from RECs regarding the ongoing collection of PVCs at the 774 Local Government Offices across the country. During the previous day’s meeting, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed the Commission’s commitment to considering additional measures to ensure that all citizens have sufficient opportunities to collect their PVCs ahead of the upcoming General Election.
After reviewing the reports from the states, the Commission was encouraged by the increasing number of Nigerians who are coming out to collect their PVCs. Consequently, based on feedback from the states and discussions with the RECs, INEC has decided to extend the PVC collection period at all Local Government Offices nationwide by an additional week. The collection will now continue until February 5, 2023.
This extension is the final one for the PVC collection exercise. Additionally, the collection hours have been increased by two hours, with operations now running from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, including weekends. However, individuals who engaged in double or multiple registrations are advised not to visit any Commission offices, as their PVCs were not printed.
The Commission remains vigilant in addressing reported cases of malpractice during the ongoing PVC collection and is dedicated to ensuring that no Nigerian is disadvantaged. All citizens who have completed valid registrations will have the opportunity to collect their PVCs. INEC once again commends the patience and determination of the citizens throughout this process.
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