Ahead of this month, off-cycle governorship election in Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has announced deadline for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards by three days.
A statement issued in Abuja and signed by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner & Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, disclosed that the decision was sequel to an appeal by stakeholders at a meeting held on Wednesday in Benin, the Edo state capital.
The statement reads in part:” The Commission held an interactive meeting with stakeholders today, Wednesday 11th September 2024, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, ahead of the Edo State governorship election held next week.
“The meeting was well-attended by Chairmen of Political Parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and the media. The Chairman of the Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, addressed the stakeholders and responded to their electoral and security concerns.
“At the meeting, stakeholders were unanimous in their appeal to the Commission to consider an extension of the period for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) for a few days to enable more voters to collect their cards.
“Consequently, a three-day extension has been granted from Friday 13th – Sunday 15th September 2024. The cards will be available for collection in our 18 Local Government offices across the State from 9am to 5pm daily.
“The Commission appeals to all registered voters who are yet to collect their PVCs to seize the opportunity of the extension to do so. In line with the Commission’s policy, no collection by proxy will be allowed.”
