BY: Sultan Usman
Claim:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plans to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
Verdict:
The claim that INEC plans to destroy six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) is FALSE. INEC has officially debunked the misinformation through a public statement, categorically denying any intention to destroy uncollected PVCs.
Full Text:
On January 5, 2025, reports surfaced online and across social media platforms claiming that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) planned to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). According to the reports, these PVCs dated back to the 2015 general elections and had remained unclaimed for over a decade. The narrative suggested that INEC intended to adopt a policy of withdrawing and destroying any uncollected PVCs to reduce storage costs and administrative burdens.
The reports sparked widespread public concern, with many Nigerians questioning the rationale behind such a decision, considering the already fragile state of voter participation in the country. Critics argued that destroying uncollected PVCs could lead to accusations of voter disenfranchisement, especially in areas where voter registration processes have faced challenges, such as delays in card distribution and issues with access to INEC offices.
However, within hours of the story gaining traction, INEC issued a strong denial. In an official statement, the electoral commission refuted the claim, calling it baseless and misleading. INEC reassured the public of its commitment to preserving uncollected PVCs for eligible voters and maintaining inclusivity in the electoral process.
INEC’s spokesperson clarified that no policy or plan had ever been considered to destroy uncollected PVCs, emphasizing the commission’s legal and ethical obligation to protect voter cards and uphold citizens’ rights to participate in elections. The statement further called on media outlets and individuals to verify information with INEC before publishing or sharing unverified claims that could mislead the public.
INEC also used the opportunity to remind citizens about the importance of collecting their PVCs, particularly in preparation for upcoming elections. The commission acknowledged challenges in card distribution in the past but stated it had introduced measures to make the process more seamless.
Historically, the only reported destruction of PVCs has occurred as a result of external attacks. For instance, in November 2022, INEC reported that 65,699 PVCs were destroyed in coordinated attacks on its offices in Ogun and Osun states. Such incidents highlight vulnerabilities in the storage and security of voter materials but do not suggest any deliberate policy of destruction by INEC.
The spread of this claim underscores the dangers of misinformation in the electoral process. It also highlights the need for media outlets to prioritise fact-checking and responsible reporting to avoid unnecessary panic and confusion.
Verification:
The claim originated from a speculative report without direct evidence or official confirmation from INEC. INEC, through a public statement on January 5, 2025, debunked the claim, stating explicitly:
“The Commission has never contemplated destroying uncollected PVCs. Such claims are unfounded and misleading. We remain committed to preserving these cards to ensure all eligible voters can participate in the electoral process.” Tribune Online.
No credible or verifiable evidence supports the claim that INEC is planning to destroy uncollected PVCs as a policy. In a statement posted on its verified X (formerly Twitter) account INEC refuted claims that it does not plans to destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
Conclusion:
The claim that INEC plans to destroy over six million uncollected PVCs is FALSE. The commission has officially debunked this misinformation, reaffirming its commitment to preserving uncollected cards and facilitating voter access. This incident underscores the importance of verifying claims with official statements and reliable sources before spreading them to avoid fueling unnecessary public concern.
