The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it will commence the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) on October 17, 2024, ahead of the governorship election in Ondo state.

Oluwatoyin Babalola, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, disclosed this on Monday in Akure at a news briefing on the level of preparedness for the governorship election.

The Ondo state governorship election will be held on November 16, 2024.

Mr Babalola explained that the PVCs would be distributed at designated collection centres across all 203 registration areas within the state’s 18 local government areas (LGAs).

The REC, who said that the exercise would include weekends and begin at the Registration Area (RA) level until October 21, 2024, explained that it would continue at the LGA level from October 23 to 29.

“After the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) in May 27, 2024, there was a significant increase in the registered voters across the state.

“58,708 new voters were registered while the total uncollected PVCs rose to 295,603.

“I am pleased to announce that the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Ondo State will commence from October 17, 2024.

“Registered voters, especially those who recently updated their details or are newly registered, should take advantage of this opportunity to collect their PVCs.

“I also encourage those who had previously registered but are yet to collect their cards to use this window to do so.

“Please note that INEC is fully committed to ensuring a smooth and accessible PVC collection process,” Mr Babalola said.

The REC also said the timely distribution of PVCs was expected to enhance voter participation and help guarantee a credible and inclusive election.

“Let me reiterate that INEC is fully committed to conducting a credible, transparent, and inclusive election in Ondo State.

“We call on the good people of Ondo State to come out en masse on election day to exercise their franchise peacefully and contribute to the growth of the democratic process in Nigeria.

“They should note that their votes will count,” Mr Babalola said. 

(NAN)