The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that the ongoing Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection exercise applies only to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of this year’s Area Council elections.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the electoral body addressed residents outside the FCT, urging them not to rely on unverified information regarding PVC collection in their states.
“Dear residents of other states, the current PVC collection exercise applies only to the FCT, ahead of this year’s Area Council Election,” INEC stated.
The clarification follows reports and public enquiries triggered by INEC’s earlier announcement on the commencement of PVC distribution in preparation for next month’s Area Council polls in the FCT. The commission had urged eligible voters in Abuja to seize the opportunity to collect their cards.
According to INEC, PVC collection in the FCT is taking place at voters’ respective Registration Areas (wards) throughout the month. The commission added that voters who are unable to collect their cards at ward level within the stipulated period will be allowed to do so later at INEC Area Council offices across the territory.
However, INEC stressed that no such exercise is currently ongoing in other parts of the country.
“For other states, the dates for PVC collection have not yet been fixed by the Commission,” the statement read.
The commission assured Nigerians that official announcements would be made once schedules for PVC collection in other states are finalised.
“Once the schedule is finalised, it will be officially announced on all INEC platforms,” INEC noted.
Calling for patience and caution, the electoral body further advised eligible voters outside the FCT to disregard rumours and await verified updates.
“We urge all eligible voters in other states to wait for official communication and avoid relying on unverified information. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” the commission added.
INEC said the clarification forms part of its efforts to promote transparency, orderliness, and effective voter participation ahead of scheduled elections.
