The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recently disclosed concern over the non-collection of more than six million Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) before the 2023 general elections. Some of these cards, dating back to 2015, remain unclaimed despite efforts to distribute them. The Permanent Voter Cards represent the right to participate in shaping governance and emphasise legitimacy for citizens to choose their representatives. The failure to collect these cards or vote disenfranchises citizens and weakens the democratic process. However, ensuring the ease of PVC collection and the convenience of voting should be a priority for the electoral body.
Meanwhile, INEC has proposed significant changes to address this issue, including phasing out unclaimed cards and introducing computer-generated voter slips integrated with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). According to INEC, this Technology allows voters to be accredited using their registration slips or biometric data without needing the physical PVC. Furthermore, their suggestion to phase out these cards raised concerns, mainly rumours about burning unclaimed cards. While the commission clarified that burning was not part of its proposal, the prospect of discarding cards has drawn attention to the cost implications.
Persistent barriers and low voter turnout rates nationwide.
Despite its efforts, INEC has struggled with logistical hurdles and public distrust. The December-February timeframe for its collection was insufficient to resolve a problem that had been lingering since the cards were introduced in 2015. Many citizens reported cumbersome and politicised processes during collection, deterring them from following through. Of over 93.4 million registered voters for the 2023 general elections, only 87.2 million collected their PVCs, leaving over six million cards unclaimed. The voter turnout was even more concerning, with only 24.9 million people casting their votes, just 26.72% of registered voters.
This turnout marked the lowest since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, reflecting deep-seated disillusionment with the electoral system. Several factors contribute to low voter registration and turnout in Nigeria, most notably the perception that votes do not count. Past elections, marred by irregularities and annulments, have eroded public confidence in the electoral process. For instance, media reports noted that nearly 50 elections were nullified by tribunals in 2015 despite the elections costing over ₦75 billion. This disillusionment dissuades many citizens from engaging in the democratic process.
Innovations to simplify the card collection and boost turnout.
Moreover, the use of these cards often extends beyond voting. Many Nigerians register for the cards not primarily to vote but to access essential services such as Education and healthcare. This utilitarian approach, while beneficial in some respects, dilutes the core purpose of these cards as a voting tool. To restore public trust and improve voter engagement, the commission must adopt innovative strategies to simplify its collection and promote active participation in elections. Introducing online voter registration and collaboration with agencies like NIPOST for card delivery could make the process more accessible.
On the other hand, integrating voter accreditation with national identification cards (ID cards) or e-PVCs could eliminate logistical barriers. Campaigns to educate the public about these innovations will be essential. The electoral commission should also consider extending collection periods to ensure all registered voters can quickly obtain their cards. By addressing logistical and perception challenges, the commission can promote a Culture of active voter participation and reduce the influence of politicians who benefit from voter apathy.
Related Article: INEC set to replace PVCs with digital voting
For democracy to thrive, Nigerians must actively engage in the electoral process. Collecting their cards and voting are fundamental responsibilities that empower citizens to demand accountability and good governance. As SBM Intelligence reported in December 2023, 79% of registered voters had successfully collected their cards midway through the collection period. However, ensuring this figure translates into higher voter turnout requires sustained efforts from the electoral body and the electorate. While technological advancements and administrative reforms are crucial, the ultimate responsibility lies with citizens.