INEC Calls for Collection of 360,794 Uncollected PVCs in Osun

PVCs remain the most important tool for democratic participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Without the card, citizens are disenfranchised, regardless of whether they are registered.
INEC has consistently emphasized that the PVC is not just an identity card but a
passport to democracy, ensuring that only eligible voters participate in elections.

In Osun State, the fact that nearly 400,000 PVCs are yet to be collected raises concerns about
the commitment of citizens to the democratic process. Considering that the state plays a significant
role in the political landscape of the Southwest region, the implications of such a high number of
unclaimed cards could be far-reaching.

To address the challenge, INEC is leveraging the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR)
exercise. The CVR process allows eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered, those who need to
transfer their voting location, or individuals who lost their cards to update their details and
collect new or replacement PVCs.

In Osun, INEC offices across the 30 Local Government Areas have been directed to prioritize the
collection of unclaimed cards. Officials have reiterated that there is no cost attached to
collecting PVCs, countering misinformation that has often discouraged voters from retrieving theirs.

Several factors contribute to the high number of unclaimed PVCs in Osun State. Among them are:

• Relocation: Many registered voters may have moved from their initial polling
  units or even relocated to other states, leaving their cards behind.
• Apathy: Some citizens register out of compulsion or social influence but later
  lose interest in completing the process of collecting their cards.
• Lack of Awareness: In some rural areas, limited access to information means
  citizens are not fully aware of the importance of PVCs or the processes involved in collection.
• Mistrust in the System: Years of election irregularities and fears of rigging
  have led some citizens to doubt the value of voting, and by extension, the importance of collecting
  their PVCs.

With Osun’s population estimated at over 5 million, 360,794 uncollected PVCs represent a significant
voting bloc. In past elections, the margin of victory in many contests was less than 50,000 votes.
This means that if even a fraction of these uncollected PVC holders participated, they could
potentially sway electoral outcomes.

Political analysts have noted that low voter turnout and poor collection of PVCs remain major
impediments to Nigeria’s democratic consolidation. While millions of Nigerians are registered,
the actual number of voters who show up on election day is often disappointing.
Closing the gap between registered voters and active voters remains one of INEC’s biggest challenges.

INEC has reiterated its readiness to ensure a transparent and accessible process for all eligible
voters in Osun State. Officials have pledged to extend working hours, deploy mobile collection
centers in rural communities, and collaborate with local leaders to sensitize citizens on the need
to collect their PVCs.

According to an INEC spokesperson in the state, We are working tirelessly to ensure that no one is
left out. The PVC belongs to the people, and our role is to make sure it gets into their hands.
We urge every eligible voter to collect their card, because without it, there is no voting.

The call by INEC has been echoed by civil society organizations, religious leaders, and political
stakeholders. Many believe that grassroots mobilization is critical in reducing the number of
uncollected PVCs. Campaigns are being carried out in schools, markets, and religious centers to
educate citizens about the importance of participating in elections.

Youth groups in Osun have also taken up the responsibility of sensitizing their peers, reminding them
that their future is tied to political decisions and governance outcomes. By encouraging PVC collection,
these groups hope to build a culture of active civic participation among young people.

With general elections on the horizon, the urgency of collecting unclaimed PVCs cannot be overstated.
Political parties are also closely monitoring the situation, recognizing that unclaimed cards could
mean fewer votes for them in tightly contested elections.

Analysts warn that the inability of voters to collect PVCs before the election deadlines could not
only affect outcomes but also weaken the credibility of the process, as critics may argue that
millions were disenfranchised. For this reason, INEC is under pressure to ensure that every voter
has adequate opportunity to collect their cards.

INEC’s appeal is simple: citizens must take responsibility for their democratic rights.
Collecting a PVC takes little time but can make a lifetime of difference in shaping governance
at local, state, and federal levels. Every election represents a chance for citizens to hold leaders
accountable and influence policies that affect their communities.

In Osun State, where voter participation has historically fluctuated, this renewed call for PVC
collection is a reminder that democracy thrives when citizens engage actively. The 360,794 uncollected
PVCs are not just cards they represent real voices, real votes, and real opportunities for change.

The Independent National Electoral Commission’s call to Osun residents is a wake-up call to the
broader Nigerian populace. Elections are not won or lost on social media debates or political rallies
but in the ballot box, where every PVC collected and used counts. With time running out before the
next election cycle, Osun residents are urged to act swiftly, retrieve their cards, and prepare to
exercise their fundamental right to vote.