Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has urged residents of Kogi State to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration and voter information update exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ahead of the July 10, 2026 deadline.

The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District made the appeal in a statement calling on eligible voters, particularly youths and first-time voters, to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

She described the PVC as a critical tool for citizens to participate in the democratic process and influence the future of their communities and the country.

“I urge all Kogi State indigenous sons and daughters, especially our youths and first-time voters, to participate actively in the ongoing PVC registration exercise. Your vote remains your voice, and your voice matters in shaping the future of our communities, our state, and our nation,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that every eligible citizen should be part of the electoral process and advised those who recently attained voting age to register without delay.

“No responsible citizen should be left out of the electoral process. Those who have attained voting age should register immediately, while those whose voter information requires correction or updating should take advantage of the ongoing exercise before the deadline,” she stated.

The senator also called on community leaders, youth groups, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns at the grassroots to boost voter registration across the state.

“I call on families, friends, community associations, and stakeholders across Kogi State to encourage one another to register. Democracy thrives when citizens participate actively. A PVC is not just a card; it is a symbol of your right to determine the future you desire,” she added.

According to her, increased participation in the voter registration exercise would strengthen democratic governance and ensure that the interests and aspirations of Kogi people are adequately represented in future elections.

She reiterated the importance of active citizen engagement in deepening democracy and promoting accountable leadership, urging residents not to wait until the final days of the exercise before completing their registration.

The appeal comes as INEC continues its nationwide voter registration and voter information update exercise, with eligible Nigerians expected to register, transfer or update their records before the July 10 deadline. (The Nation)