The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the extension of the collection of Permanent Voters Cards from September 13 to 15.

In a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the decision was taken to give voters more time to collect their cards and be part of the poll.

The statement reads, “The Commission held an interactive meeting with stakeholders today, Wednesday 11thSeptember 2024, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, ahead of the Edo State governorship election held next week.

“The meeting was well-attended by Chairmen of Political Parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and the media.

“The Chairman of the Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, addressed the stakeholders and responded to their electoral and security concerns.

“At the meeting, stakeholders were unanimous in their appeal to the Commission to consider an extension of the period for the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) for a few days to enable more voters to collect their cards.

“Consequently, a three-day extension has been granted from Friday 13th– Sunday 15thSeptember 2024. The cards will be available for collection in our 18 Local Government offices across the State from 9 am to 5 pm daily.

“The Commission appeals to all registered voters who are yet to collect their PVCs to seize the opportunity of the extension to do so. In line with the Commission’s policy, no collection by proxy will be allowed.” (New Telegraph)