Edo Decides: INEC Extend PVC Collections Deadline, Confirms Readiness
3 min read
By Joy Richardson
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to Sunday, September 15, 2024, as part of its final preparations for the Edo State elections scheduled for September 21, 2024.
The commission has assured stakeholders of its commitment to delivering a transparent, free, and credible election.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, confirmed that funds for election training have been disbursed and that the voters’ register has been publicly displayed and presented to political parties.
Dr. Onuoha also reported that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAs) have been tested for functionality following recent flooding, with 3,817 BVAs recovered and additional units received from neighboring states. All BVAs and power banks have been charged and are ready for deployment.
He urged all eligible voters to turn out in large numbers on election day.
Professor Rhoda Gumus, the Supervisory National Commissioner for Edo, Delta, and Cross River States, outlined that INEC has completed 11 key preparatory activities, with only two remaining, the final day of campaigning, which is set for midnight on September 19, 2024, and the election day itself on September 21, 2024.
A mock accreditation exercise was successfully conducted on September 10 across three senatorial districts, involving six selected local government areas (LGAs) and 12 polling units.
Professor Gumus assured that trained technical staff will be deployed to all Registration Area Centres (RACs) and polling units to provide technical support during the election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized the commission’s readiness, stating that 18 political parties will participate in the Edo State elections.
He highlighted that the state has over 2.6 million registered voters and that INEC has accredited 134 election observer groups and 114 media organizations to ensure comprehensive coverage. Prof. Yakubu reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to a fair electoral process.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, detailed extensive security measures to safeguard the electoral process, stressing the collaborative efforts between the police and other security agencies.
He announced that 35,000 police officers, along with 8,000 personnel from the armed forces and other security agencies, will be deployed to maintain law and order. He underscored the police force’s allegiance to the Constitution and the people of Nigeria, stating that any attempts at violence or disruption will be met with swift and decisive action.
The Inspector General also clarified that all local security forces have been instructed to refrain from any election- related activities and that the operations of the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) will remain suspended until further notice.
Additionally, he revealed that the security details of VIPs in the state will be withdrawn a few days before the election, with alternative arrangements made for their safety.
Representatives from the Oba of Benin, the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Islamic Society, political parties, and Civil Rights Organizations delivered goodwill messages at the meeting.
In response to stakeholder concerns, INEC announced the extension of PVC collection at the LGA level to Sunday, September 15, 2024.
INEC has reiterated its commitment to a transparent and peaceful electoral process and has called on all citizens to actively participate in ensuring a successful election.
