INEC will not be able to provide 200,000 PVcs in Lagos

The Independent National Electoral Commission has said that it would not provide about 200,000 Permanent Voter’s Cards, PVCs, in Lagos State ahead of Saturday’s election.

Akin Orebiyii, the state Resident Electoral Commission, disclosed this Wednesday during a Stakeholders’ Forum in Lagos.

According to Mr. Orebiyii, out of the 5.8 million registered voters in Lagos, 5.6 million PVCs were available for distribution and collection.

“We want to extend our apologies to those who had challenges and difficulties in obtaining their PVCs, it is not our intention,” Mr. Orebiyii said.

Mr. Orebiyii said that INEC officials would pass Friday night at the various local government collation centres to enable early deployment of men and material to the over 8,000 polling units.

“We are very sure that this year, we are going to arrive on time. That is why we are going to sleep at the RACs (Registration Area Centres). We will leave the RACs by 5 a.m. and by 6.30 – 7 a.m., INEC officials are already waiting for voters.”

The Lagos REC said that just like in previous elections, priority would be given to the aged, disabled, and pregnant women.

“The Temporary Voter’s Cards as we speak have become obsolete. They have become a thing of the past. The smart card, similar to the PoS used in banks and supermarkets, will be used. It will recognize the PVC once it is put inside during accreditation,” said Mr. Orebiyii.