By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the replacement of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) with computer-generated slips for voter accreditation during upcoming elections. This decision was revealed by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, at a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on Thursday.
The new approach is part of a broader initiative to improve the electoral process, particularly following the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System
The meeting, held at the INEC Conference Room in Abuja, focused on planning and reforms based on lessons learned from the 2023 General Election. Yakubu explained that the new approach is part of a broader initiative to improve the electoral process, particularly following the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
“Having released our 524-page main report on the election, we have consulted widely both internally and externally with all major stakeholders,” Yakubu stated. He emphasized that the time is ripe for implementing recommendations derived from the review of the general election, particularly after the conclusion of five off-cycle governorship elections and several bye-elections.
INEC has identified 142 recommendations aimed at improving various aspects of the electoral process
Yakubu outlined that INEC has identified 142 recommendations aimed at improving various aspects of the electoral process, including voter management, public communication, and electoral technology. Of these recommendations, 86 require administrative action by the Commission, while 48 will involve collaboration with external stakeholders such as security agencies, political parties, and civil society organizations.
Among the key highlights of the recommendations is the call for legal clarity regarding the management of election results, especially concerning the manual versus electronic transmission of results. Yakubu reiterated that while voters who possess PVCs can still use them, the introduction of computer-generated slips will streamline the accreditation process and mitigate issues related to PVC collection and voter disenfranchisement.
“This new system not only promises cost savings but also addresses the malpractices associated with the PVC collection process,” Yakubu noted. He assured attendees that the Commission would soon present its recommendations to the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Electoral Matters for legislative consideration.
The public and various stakeholders are urged to prepare for a new phase in Nigeria’s electoral journey
As the Commission moves forward with these reforms, the public and various stakeholders are urged to prepare for a new phase in Nigeria’s electoral journey, aimed at fostering transparency and accessibility in the democratic process.
