The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering a policy to withdraw and destroy Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) uncollected for over a decade, The PUNCH has learned.
This proposal, among 208 recommendations from INEC’s review of the 2023 general elections, seeks to address the persistent challenge of unclaimed PVCs, with over six million still uncollected, some dating back to 2015.
Stakeholders in the post-election review suggested that INEC withdraw PVCs uncollected for extended periods to declutter the voter management system. The commission noted that despite multiple extensions for PVC collection, including a window that extended to February 2023, many voters failed to claim their cards.
INEC also proposed phasing out PVCs entirely, citing the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which can accredit voters using biometric data and digital registration slips, making plastic cards less relevant. However, this would require amending Section 47(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which currently mandates PVC presentation for voting.
Mixed Reactions to INEC’s Plan
Political parties and legal experts remain divided on INEC’s proposal.
The Labour Party’s National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, supported the initiative, stating that uncollected PVCs might indicate irregularities or deceased voters. Conversely, the PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, criticized the move as a potential distraction and called for INEC to rebuild public trust in its processes.
The NNPP also opposed the plan, with its National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, describing the destruction of PVCs as wasteful and suggesting that better safekeeping measures be employed.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) provided varying perspectives. Prof. Itse Sagay argued that many uncollected PVCs might result from fraudulent or double registrations, supporting their destruction to clear the system. Similarly, Sam Erugo (SAN) stated that unclaimed cards serve no purpose and could potentially be exploited for electoral malpractice.
However, Paul Obi (SAN) cautioned against rushing to destroy the cards, advocating for increased awareness campaigns to encourage collection instead.
As INEC deliberates its next steps, the policy raises broader questions about voter registration, election integrity, and cost management in Nigeria’s electoral process.
