Esther Salifu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled a comprehensive set of reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s electoral system, which includes diaspora voting and the phasing out of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in favor of computer-generated slips or downloadable credentials for voter accreditation.
“We believe that with the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, the use of PVCs as the sole means of identification for voter accreditation on election day should be reviewed,” said INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. “This will not only save costs but also eliminate the issues around PVC collection and the diabolical practice of buying up cards from voters to disenfranchise them.”
The proposed reforms, captured in a 524-page review report, include, Allowing Nigerians living abroad to participate in elections, Replacing PVCs with computer-generated slips or downloadable credentials for voter accreditation.
Establishing a separate agency to handle electoral offences.
Creating a separate agency to oversee political party registration and regulation
Improving voter access and distribution to polling units,
Intensifying voter education campaigns to combat misinformation and promote greater participation by marginalized groups
Yakubu emphasized that 86 of the 142 recommendations require administrative action by INEC, while 48 depend on collaboration with stakeholders, and eight involve legislative amendments by the National Assembly. The commission will soon present these proposals to the relevant committees in the Senate and House of Representatives.
