INEC Reveals Number Of Stolen Voters Cards In Edo

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed a shocking amount of Permanent Voter Cards that were snatched during last week’s distribution exercise in nine local government areas of Edo State.

INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega

The state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Baritor Kpagih, on Tuesday revealed to the Punch that a total of 4,658 Permanent Voter Cards were stolen in the state.

He said a total of 3,661 PVCs were snatched in eight polling units in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the state, adding that

Speaking further on the outcome of the distribution exercise, Mr. Kpagih, revealed that the commission also lost 997 of the cards in Etsako West and Ovia North-East local government areas of the state.

While condemning the theft of the PVCs, he reiterated that, the card could only be useful to their rightful owners, and hinted that the matter had been reported to the police with the commission expected to carryout internal investigation.

“We also want to put it on record that we were a bit disappointed that in spite of our appeal to all our people to recognise the fact that stealing and snatching of cards will be of no use because these cards can only be used by the card holder, such events still took place in a number of local government areas. The most disturbing is the one that took place in Orhrionmwon Local Government Area, where a total number of 3,661 cards were snatched from eight polling units. The case has been reported to the police and we believe that the Police will do a good job,” Mr. Kpagih said.

The REC, while speaking on some of the challenges encountered during the distribution exercise condemned lateness of INEC workers at the various units as well as delay in training of members of staff.

Mr. Kpagih, who could not ascertain the total number of PVCs brought to Edo State, said some of the PVCs were originally meant for eligible voters in Jigawa, Kogi and Delta states as well.
The resident commissioner, who stated that technical setback, might be responsible for the non-availability of the PVCs at some polling units in the state, promised that INEC would follow up and make sure affected voters get their cards.

Kpagih said the continuous voter registration would commence today (Wednesday) at the various ward collation centres in the state for persons above 18-years of age or just turning 18. He said those who could not find their names on the voters register are also expected to register too.


It would be recalled that on November 8, 2014, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, began the distribution of Permanent Voters Card, PVC, in Lagos State.

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has debunked speculations about his alleged presidential ambition as he clears his mind on the All progressives Congress (APC) Presidential ticket.