INEC Says Politicians Stockpiling PVCs Are 'Living in the Past'

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed concerns that politicians stockpiling Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) could influence the outcome of the 2027 general elections, insisting that advances in the country's electoral system have made such tactics ineffective. The commission assured Nigerians that every valid vote would count and that election results would reflect the will of the electorate.

Speaking at a seminar organised by the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Head of Voter Education and Publicity, Dr Adejumo Peter, said politicians relying on seized or purchased PVCs were "living in the past". He explained that the introduction of improved voter accreditation technology has made it impossible for anyone to vote using another person's PVC.

Peter noted that because the misuse of PVCs is no longer a viable strategy, some politicians have shifted their attention to vote-buying. He urged political parties and candidates to focus instead on issue-based campaigns, present their manifestos to voters and avoid violence before, during and after the elections.

INEC also reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections in line with the provisions of the amended Electoral Act. The commission stressed that election officials would strictly adhere to established guidelines to ensure that the 2027 polls are conducted on the principle of one person, one vote.

The commission's reassurance comes amid growing public interest in preparations for the 2027 elections, with INEC maintaining that improvements in electoral technology and legal reforms have strengthened the integrity of Nigeria's voting process.