INEC Resumes Continuous Voter Registration for Edo and Ondo Elections

By Iyojo Ameh

In anticipation of the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo States, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recommenced the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) activities.

The CVR process in both states will run concurrently from Monday, May 27th, 2024, to Wednesday, June 5th, 2024. Registration centers will be operational from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm daily, including weekends, to accommodate prospective voters.

Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of INEC, made this announcement during the second regular quarterly consultative meeting with political party leaders.

Yakubu emphasized the importance of the CVR for new registrants and individuals seeking to transfer their registration. He reiterated that multiple registrations are illegal and urged registered voters not to attempt re-registration.

To enhance accessibility, the registration process will be conducted at Ward level and State headquarters instead of INEC Local Government offices. This adjustment will result in 192 Ward registration centers in Edo State and 203 centers in Ondo State.

“We encourage those who have not collected their PVCs in the two States to seize the opportunity to do so,” Yakubu urged, stressing the significance of voter participation.

Additionally, Yakubu informed party leaders about vacancies in National and State Assemblies, necessitating bye-elections in various constituencies across the country. The Commission will announce the dates for these bye-elections once preparations are concluded.

In response, Yusuf M. Dantalle, the National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and National Chairman for Allied People’s Movement (APM), called for collective efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. He advocated for local government autonomy, emphasizing the importance of grassroots political participation.

Dantalle condemned divisive politics and urged political parties to uphold democratic principles. He also called for a review of high expression of interest and nomination fees charged by some political parties to promote internal democracy.

“In deepening democracy, leaders of political parties must set the example by ensuring conducive environments for successful elections,” Dantalle remarked, highlighting the importance of restoring trust in the electoral system.