The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a crucial warning to individuals without Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), advising them to stay away from polling centers during the upcoming November 16 Governorship Election in Ondo State. This announcement highlights the importance of having valid identification to participate in the electoral process.
Prof. Kunle Ajayi, INEC National Commissioner supervising the states of Ondo, Ogun, and Osun, made this statement during the presentation of soft copies of the Register of Voters for the election to various political parties on Tuesday in Akure, Ondo State. This presentation is part of INEC’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.[/p>
Ajayi emphasized the Commission's preparedness and determination to conduct a free, fair, credible, and inclusive election in Ondo State, stating that a total of 2,053,006 eligible voters have been registered for this electoral cycle. This number underscores the active engagement of the electorate in the democratic process.
“It is important to reiterate to you that the Commission shall commence the distribution of the newly printed Permanent Voters Cards, as well as the uncollected PVCs from the previous Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise starting from Thursday,” Ajayi announced. He highlighted the need for political party representatives to mobilize their supporters to collect their PVCs promptly.
Moreover, Ajayi urged Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the media to utilize their platforms effectively to encourage the general public, registrants, and eligible voters to come out en masse to collect their PVCs. “Because without the PVC, nobody would be allowed to vote,” he stressed, reinforcing the necessity of proper voter identification for participation in the election.
He also reiterated that PVC collection would not be permitted by proxy, as this practice is illegal, and warned that anyone found in possession of more than one PVC would face legal repercussions. This measure is aimed at ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and preventing any form of electoral malpractice.
In a further push to include all citizens, Ajayi called on Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), PWD-focused CSOs, and advocacy groups to encourage any PWDs to come out and collect their PVCs. He assured that the Commission has made adequate provisions for assistive devices, ensuring a seamless voting experience for all PWDs in the forthcoming election.
Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, emphasized the significance of publishing and presenting the voter register as a crucial and statutory step in safeguarding the credibility and transparency of the electoral process. She stated that this presentation serves as a powerful reminder that the future of Ondo State lies in the hands of its people.
“I call on all stakeholders to remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding the integrity of the process,” Babalola stated. She encouraged voters in Ondo State to come out and cast their votes freely, with the assurance that their choices would be respected and that their votes would count.
Additionally, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ondo State, praised INEC for its timely presentation of the voters register. He remarked that this would enable political parties to return to the field and mobilize their supporters to come out in large numbers on election day.
“It’s now our duty as political parties to go back to all 3,936 polling units to mobilize and canvass for the votes of the electorate,” he said, highlighting the collaborative effort required from all political stakeholders to ensure a successful electoral process in Ondo State.