The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may allow eligible Nigerians without Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to vote in the 2027 general elections. However, the commission insists this can only happen if lawmakers amend the current legal framework.
Speaking with Punch on Wednesday, Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, said the commission aims to improve voter access through technology. He noted that moving away from PVC-only voting would require support from the National Assembly.
“Our position isn’t enough, what the law says also matters,” Oyekanmi explained. “We welcome stakeholder suggestions that PVCs shouldn’t be the only requirement to vote. But we need the law to back this change.”
The idea of a more flexible accreditation system follows remarks made by INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu. During a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in December 2024, he highlighted how the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) improves elections.
As reported by Naija News, Yakubu said PVCs will still be valid. But in future elections, voters might use slips generated by INEC or downloaded from its website.
He explained that this new method could reduce costs and make logistics easier. It would also help stop the misuse of PVCs. “Voters with PVCs can still use them. But going forward, computer-generated or downloadable slips will be enough for accreditation,” he said.
“This will cut expenses, end collection issues, and stop people from buying PVCs to block others from voting,” Yakubu added.
INEC’s proposed changes show its focus on making elections more inclusive, secure, and tech-friendly.
