PVC distribution timetable: The ADC has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish a clear nationwide timetable for the distribution and collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The opposition party warned that Nigerians who successfully registered to vote should not be prevented from exercising their constitutional rights because of administrative delays in accessing their PVCs.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said millions of Nigerians who participated in the voter registration exercise deserve clear information about when and where their PVCs will be available.
The party said registration alone is not enough if eligible voters cannot obtain the cards required to participate in elections.
The ADC urged INEC to publish information on a state-by-state basis, including the number of newly registered voters, PVCs produced, cards distributed, outstanding cards and designated collection centres.
It also called for stronger public information campaigns to ensure that registered voters are properly informed about the collection process.
According to the party, the collection process should be decentralised wherever practicable so that distance, bureaucracy and poor communication do not become barriers to electoral participation.
The ADC expressed concern that uncertainty over PVC distribution could create problems as the 2027 general election approaches.
It said Nigerians should not be left waiting until election time to find out whether their voter cards are available.
The party also said INEC has an opportunity to address the issue early by providing transparent and comprehensive information to the public.
The ADC further announced that it would mobilise its structures across the country to monitor PVC distribution and document complaints from registered voters who are unable to obtain their cards.
The party stressed that every registered voter should have a reasonable opportunity to collect their PVC before the election.
It warned against a situation where eligible citizens complete the registration process but are unable to participate because their voter cards are unavailable.
The ADC said ensuring access to PVCs is an important part of maintaining confidence in the electoral process and protecting citizens’ voting rights.
The call comes as political parties and other stakeholders begin preparations ahead of the 2027 general election.
INEC is responsible for the conduct of Nigeria’s elections and the management of voter registration and PVC distribution.
The ADC said greater transparency around PVC production and distribution would help reduce uncertainty and allow registered voters to plan ahead.
It also urged INEC to improve communication with Nigerians and provide timely updates on the status of their voter cards.
The party said its monitoring effort would help identify problems and bring unresolved cases to public attention.
The ADC maintained that no registered Nigerian should be unnecessarily disenfranchised because of delays in the availability or collection of a PVC.
Source: Channels Television