INEC extends deadline for PVC collection in Edo to September 15

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the collection of permanent voter cards (PVCs) in Edo state to September 15.

Sam Olumekun, INEC national commissioner, announced the extension in Benin on Thursday, ahead of the September 21 governorship election.

Olumekun said stakeholders unanimously appealed to the commission to consider an extension of the collection of PVCs to enable more voters get their cards.

“The commission held an interactive meeting with stakeholders in Benin ahead of the governorship election,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“The meeting was well attended by chairmen of political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and the media.

“The chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, addressed the stakeholders and responded to their electoral and security concerns.

“In view of that, a three-day extension has been granted from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15.

“The cards will be available for collection in our 18 local government offices across the state from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.”

He urged all registered voters who are yet to collect their PVCs to seize the opportunity of the extension to do so.

He said that there would be no collection by proxy, in line with the commission’s policy.