Plan to Address Uncollected PVCs
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its intention to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The cards, some dating back to 2015, have remained unclaimed despite extended collection periods and various efforts to facilitate access. This move, part of INEC’s post-2023 election review, aims to declutter the voter management system and streamline future electoral processes.
Persistent Collection Challenges
INEC revealed that despite campaigns and support from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to improve PVC collection, millions of cards remain uncollected. The commission noted that unclaimed PVCs often result from irregularities during voter registration, duplications, or voter apathy. INEC believes many uncollected cards belong to deceased individuals or represent fraudulent registrations.
Modernizing Electoral Systems
To modernize Nigeria’s electoral process, INEC is exploring alternatives to PVCs, leveraging the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). With BVAS, biometric accreditation eliminates the need for plastic voter cards, as voters can use registration slips or digital credentials for identification. However, this transition requires amending Section 47(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the presentation of PVCs during accreditation.
Political Parties’ Mixed Reactions
Reactions to INEC’s proposal have been divided. While the Labour Party and some legal experts support the move, citing efficiency and cost savings, other parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have raised concerns. Critics argue that destroying the cards could erode trust in the electoral process and waste public funds spent on their production.
Legal and Financial Implications
Senior legal practitioners have largely backed INEC, asserting that unclaimed PVCs serve no practical purpose and may pose risks of misuse. They emphasize the importance of maintaining an accurate voter database. Conversely, dissenting voices call for increased public awareness to encourage collection rather than outright destruction, highlighting the financial implications of reissuing PVCs if their owners later come forward.
Path Forward for Electoral Reforms
INEC’s plans reflect a broader strategy to modernize voting procedures and reduce logistical burdens in future elections. As debates continue, stakeholders agree on the need for reforms to ensure Nigeria’s electoral system remains credible, efficient, and inclusive. Meanwhile, INEC has reiterated its commitment to transparency in implementing these changes, seeking collaboration from political parties and civil society organizations.
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