The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties have expressed differing perspectives on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposal to phase out Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and introduce diaspora voting, with the APC supporting the reforms and opposition parties emphasizing sincerity of purpose......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, announced last Thursday that these reforms, which aim to improve Nigeria’s electoral system based on lessons from the 2023 general elections, would soon be presented to the National Assembly.
APC’s National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, welcomed the reforms, emphasizing that the APC has been a proponent of electoral innovations. “If INEC believes these changes will enhance credibility and boost voter confidence, we have no objection,” he stated, adding that skepticism is inevitable but should not deter progress.
However, Labour Party’s National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, warned about potential abuse in implementing diaspora voting. He highlighted the importance of inclusivity for Nigerians abroad while calling for technological safeguards. Edun also noted the persistent issue of voter disillusionment, urging INEC to build trust and improve election turnout.
Similarly, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, welcomed the reforms but stressed the need for effective implementation and integrity within INEC.
Osadolor criticized instances of alleged result manipulation, urging the commission to train staff and purge corrupt individuals. “It’s not just about innovation; it’s about those managing it,” he remarked, adding that INEC must rebuild public trust.
INEC Scrap PVC
Despite the mixed reactions, the proposed reforms signal a potential shift in Nigeria’s electoral processes, aiming to address challenges while boosting credibility and inclusiveness. However, their success hinges on transparency and effective management by INEC.
