Felicia Udeji Reporting
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a 3-day extension for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) ahead of the Edo State gubernatorial election scheduled for September 21, 2024.
This decision was made during a stakeholders’ meeting held on September 11 at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Center, Benin City. The meeting, which was well attended by chairmen of political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organizations, and members of the media, was convened to discuss preparations for the upcoming election.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and the Inspector-General of Police, both addressed the stakeholders, emphasizing the commission’s readiness to conduct a credible election. During the meeting, several stakeholders appealed to INEC for an extension of the voter card collection period, to allow more time for eligible voters to collect their PVCs and ensure full participation in the election.
Responding to this appeal, INEC granted a 3-day extension for the collection of PVCs, which will now take place from Friday, September 13, to Sunday, September 15, 2024.
The commission urged voters who have not yet collected their PVCs to take advantage of this extended period. In a press release signed and made available to newsmen by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olemekun, INEC reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every eligible voter is ready for the election and called on citizens to actively participate in the electoral process by collecting their PVCs.
The meeting concluded with the commission’s appeal to voters to seize the opportunity to collect their cards and prepare for the forthcoming gubernatorial election.
