INEC Extends PVC Collection in Anambra Ahead of November 8 Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced an extension of the ongoing collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Anambra State, following appeals from residents and stakeholders who requested additional time to collect their cards ahead of the November 8, 2025, governorship election. The extension, according to the commission, is aimed at ensuring that no eligible voter is disenfranchised due to logistical constraints or time limitations during the initial collection period.

In a statement released on Monday night, October 27, 2025, by the Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, INEC confirmed that the collection exercise, which was originally scheduled to conclude on Sunday, October 26, 2025, has now been extended by one week. The new schedule runs from Wednesday, October 29, to Sunday, November 2, 2025.

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“The Independent National Electoral Commission has approved the extension of the ongoing collection of Permanent Voter Cards in Anambra State,” the statement read. “The exercise, which was earlier scheduled to end on Sunday, October 26, 2025, has now been extended from Wednesday, October 29, to Sunday, November 2, 2025. It covers persons who registered during the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in the state.”

INEC’s Effort to Ensure Inclusive Voter Participation

INEC emphasized that the decision to extend the PVC collection period was made in response to multiple appeals from civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and community-based groups. The commission stated that it recognizes the critical role voter cards play in facilitating participation in the democratic process and is therefore committed to giving all eligible citizens adequate opportunity to obtain theirs.

The statement further urged all registered voters who have yet to collect their cards to take full advantage of the extended period and visit their designated collection centres across the 326 registration areas in the state. Eta-Messi reiterated that the commission would not allow collection by proxy, stressing that only individuals can collect their PVCs in person to avoid cases of impersonation or electoral fraud.

“No collection by proxy is allowed,” she said firmly. “Each voter must appear in person at their designated registration area to collect their Permanent Voter Card. This is in line with INEC’s commitment to transparency and credibility in the electoral process.”

Eta-Messi also expressed appreciation to residents of Anambra State for their patience, enthusiasm, and cooperation throughout the ongoing voter card collection exercise. “INEC appreciates the patience, enthusiasm, and cooperation of the good people of Anambra State and urges all eligible voters to use this opportunity to collect their PVCs and get ready to participate in the forthcoming governorship election,” she added.

INEC’s Readiness for the Anambra Governorship Election

Earlier on Monday, INEC reiterated that it is fully prepared for the November 8 governorship election in Anambra. A week-long readiness assessment was carried out by a high-level delegation from the commission’s headquarters in Abuja to evaluate the state’s preparedness across key operational areas.

The delegation, led by the National Commissioner for Election Planning and Monitoring, Professor Rhoda Gumus, included other National Commissioners such as Sam Olumekun, Dr. Kenneth Ukeagu, and Dr. Baba Bila. The team visited local government offices, inspected sensitive and non-sensitive election materials, and reviewed the logistics framework in place for the distribution of electoral resources.

According to sources within the commission, the visit also focused on evaluating security arrangements, particularly in areas previously identified as flashpoints. INEC assured the public that adequate collaboration has been established with security agencies to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible election in the state.

Professor Gumus, speaking during the inspection tour, affirmed that INEC is determined to deliver a free and fair election that reflects the will of the people. “Our focus is on ensuring that the Anambra governorship election meets the highest standards of credibility and transparency. Every logistical and operational challenge is being addressed proactively to guarantee a seamless voting process,” she stated.

Stakeholders Commend INEC’s Decision

The extension of the PVC collection period has been widely praised by political stakeholders, civil society groups, and residents. Many described it as a timely decision that demonstrates INEC’s responsiveness to public concerns. Leaders of youth organizations and community associations in Anambra have particularly lauded the move, noting that it will allow more first-time voters, especially students and new registrants, to collect their cards before the poll.

Civil society organizations monitoring the election process also commended the electoral body’s decision. The Anambra Civil Movement for Good Governance (ACMGG) noted that the additional days would significantly increase voter participation, particularly in rural communities where transportation and communication barriers had initially limited turnout during the first phase of collection.

“We commend INEC for listening to the people and extending the PVC collection period,” said Chidi Okafor, the group’s spokesperson. “This decision will ensure that thousands of registered voters who were unable to collect their cards earlier due to logistical challenges now have another opportunity to do so.”

INEC’s Appeal for Cooperation and Vigilance

As the governorship election approaches, INEC has appealed to voters, political parties, and community leaders to continue supporting its efforts toward ensuring a credible process. The commission warned against voter apathy, stressing that collecting PVCs remains the first critical step toward exercising one’s civic responsibility.

The commission also advised political actors to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid inciting violence or spreading misinformation that could disrupt the election. INEC reiterated that all arrangements—ranging from voter education and logistics to technology deployment—are on track and will be tested during a mock accreditation exercise ahead of the poll.

The extension of PVC collection in Anambra State reflects INEC’s commitment to inclusiveness and voter empowerment. As the state gears up for the November 8 governorship election, the commission’s proactive measures, combined with its readiness to address logistical and operational concerns, are seen as vital steps toward ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process.