Commission Addresses Delays To Ensure Gubernatorial Poll Inclusion
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) extended the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Edo State by five days to July 28, following protests over delays caused by flooding. The extension aims to accommodate thousands of eligible voters for the September 2025 gubernatorial election. INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Anugbum Onuoha, announced that additional registration machines were deployed to centers in Benin City and Etsako West to manage the backlog. The commission reported 48,000 new registrants, with provisions for updating voter records and replacing lost Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Onuoha directed officials to extend hours at urban centers to ensure accessibility. The Edo State Government allocated N75 million to repair flood-damaged facilities, supporting INEC’s efforts. The extension responds to public demands for inclusivity, particularly among youths and rural communities. INEC stationed officials at community centers to assist persons with disabilities, emphasizing equitable access. The commission plans to publish the updated voter register by August 15, ahead of party primaries. The protests, led by civil society groups, highlighted logistical challenges in Nigeria’s electoral system. INEC’s response aims to boost voter participation in Edo, a key state for national politics. The extension underscores the commission’s commitment to credible elections, with the gubernatorial poll expected to influence Nigeria’s 2027 electoral dynamics. The government was urged to address infrastructure deficits to prevent future disruptions.