By Monyeazor Oluebube
As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) begins the nationwide collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Karibe Ojigwe has called on the electoral body to ensure a credible, transparent, and inclusive process.
Speaking Morenews360global in Abuja on, Hon. Karibe Ojigwe described the PVC collection exercise as the foundation of credible elections, noting that the integrity of the 2027 general elections depends largely on how transparently INEC conducts this phase.
“The PVC is not just a card, it is the ticket to democratic participation. If the collection process is flawed, hoarded, or manipulated, we will lose public confidence before voting even starts,” Hon. Ojigwe said.
He commended INEC for decentralizing collection to ward and local government levels but warned that past experiences where voters were turned back unnecessarily, or cards were diverted, must not repeat themselves.
“We have seen situations in the past where voters travelled long distances only to be told their cards were not ready, or were made to pay unofficial fees. That must stop. PVC collection is a constitutional right, not a favour,” he added.
The NDC candidate for Bende Federal Constituency, called on INEC to publish the list of collection centres, opening hours, and procedures clearly to avoid confusion, especially for rural dwellers and persons with disabilities.
He also urged Ndi Bende, election observers, party agents, and the media to monitor the exercise closely.
“We need observers at every collection centre. Transparency is not in announcements, it is in access. Every registered voter must have access to their card without intimidation, discrimination, or delay,” he stated.
He particularly appealed to INEC officials to ensure that no community, tribe, or political affiliation is favoured over others, warning that any form of selective distribution could trigger tension ahead of the polls.
The ex international player and Abia State former commissioner for youth and sports, urged all registered voters, especially youths, women, and first-time voters, to visit their designated INEC offices and ward collection points early to pick up their cards.
“Do not wait for the last-minute rush. Collect your PVC today. Do not sell your future for temporary inducement. Your PVC is your voice, your power, and your weapon to demand accountability from your leaders,” he said.
He noted that many young Nigerians registered during the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise but have not collected their cards, describing the trend as a lost opportunity for civic participation.
He appealed to traditional rulers, market women associations, religious leaders, and youth groups to join the campaign and encourage their members to collect their PVCs.
“Our duty is to ensure no eligible voter is disenfranchised because of ignorance or logistics. We will provide transport and assistance where needed to ensure people get to the collection centres,” he disclosed.
INEC, in its nationwide announcement earlier this week, stated that collection centres have been opened across the 774 local government areas, with designated officers on ground from Monday to Friday, and on weekends in high-density areas.
The Commission also warned against proxy collection and advised voters to present valid identification to collect their cards personally.
Hon. Pascal Karibe Ojigwe said the success of the PVC collection exercise would be a test of INEC’s preparedness for 2027, noting that a high collection rate would reflect voter readiness and strengthen democratic participation.
“When we collect our PVCs, we send a clear message that Nigerians are ready to choose their leaders and hold them accountable. Credible elections begin with credible collection,” he concluded.
*GET YOUR PVC. VOTE FOR NDC. VOTE FOR HON. KARIBE OJIGWE FOR MEMBER REPRESENTING BENDE FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY. VOTE A NEW BENDE.*
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