The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured residents of Bayelsa State of a hitch-free and transparent continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise, set to commence on August 18.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday in Yenagoa, the newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Bayelsa, Isah Ehimeakhe, highlighted the commission’s preparedness and technological innovations geared towards ensuring a seamless process.
He emphasised that the registration process will be accessible through the INEC portal, offering improved ease for first-time registrants while reinforcing security checks to prevent multiple or illegal registrations.
“Once you have been issued a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) or completed your registration previously, you do not need to register again. Attempting to do so constitutes double registration, which is a punishable offence under Section 114 (b) of the Electoral Act 2022,” Ehimeakhe warned.
He noted that the commission’s Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) has been enhanced to detect and flag multiple registrations. Individuals found culpable risk fines, imprisonment, or both.
Commitment to Inclusive Participation
The REC reiterated that voter registration is both a constitutional right and civic responsibility, encouraging all eligible Nigerians aged 18 and above who have not registered to seize the opportunity.
“No eligible citizen will be denied the opportunity to register and vote. INEC is committed to ensuring that every qualified Nigerian has the chance to participate in the democratic process,” he stated.
He assured that INEC would work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard the integrity and safety of the registration process.
Stakeholders Urged to Support the Process
Ehimeakhe called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, youth and women groups, civil society organisations, and the media to support INEC’s efforts in mobilising and educating the public on the importance of voter registration.
With general elections and off-cycle elections ahead, INEC’s renewed emphasis on technological transparency and legal compliance is aimed at boosting public confidence and curbing electoral fraud in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
