KACRAN Urges INEC to Extend PVC Collection by One Week, Says Millions Unaware

The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to extend the ongoing collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) by one week, warning that millions of Nigerians may not be aware of the exercise.

The association said additional time was needed to give eligible voters more opportunities to collect their cards ahead of the 2027 general elections.

INEC commenced nationwide PVC collection on October 9, following the completion of its three-phase Continuous Voter Registration exercise. The commission said the national register of voters had grown to more than 103 million after the registration of over 10.7 million new voters.

However, concerns have emerged over public awareness and turnout at collection centres. Reports from the opening day of the exercise indicated low turnout in some locations, while some voters complained about the absence of electoral officials or difficulties obtaining their cards.

KACRAN’s request highlights the importance of ensuring that eligible voters receive timely information about collection arrangements, designated centres and applicable deadlines.

The association believes an extension would give more people the opportunity to collect their PVCs and reduce the risk of eligible voters being unable to participate because they missed the collection period.

Public awareness remains an important part of the electoral process, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities where information may not circulate as quickly as it does in urban centres. Traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media can help disseminate information about collection dates and locations.

INEC has urged eligible voters to collect their cards and verify their details ahead of the elections. The commission has also introduced printable PVC technology intended to reduce waiting times and make replacement cards easier to obtain.

Beyond extending the deadline, effective communication and accessible collection arrangements will be essential to ensuring that registered voters can obtain their cards without unnecessary difficulty.

The 2027 general elections are expected to involve a large electorate, making the distribution and collection of PVCs a significant logistical task for the electoral commission.

KACRAN’s appeal places renewed attention on whether the existing collection period provides sufficient time for public awareness and access across the country. INEC’s response to the request will determine whether the current timetable is retained or additional time is granted.