The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its willingness to allow eligible Nigerians without Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to vote in the 2027 general elections, contingent upon necessary legislative amendments.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to expanding voter access through technology. However, he noted that any changes to the current PVC-only voting system must be supported by legal updates.
This initiative follows INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu’s remarks in December 2024 during a consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners. Yakubu highlighted the increasing role of technology, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, in streamlining electoral processes.
While PVCs will remain valid for existing cardholders, future elections may permit voters to use slips generated by INEC or downloaded from its website for accreditation. Yakubu explained that this shift could reduce costs, alleviate logistical burdens, and minimize the misuse of voter cards.
Oyekanmi reiterated that any change in voting procedures must align with existing laws. “While the commission is favorably disposed to the recommendation by stakeholders, the law needs to be amended to reflect it,” he stated.
