The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it
is investigating allegations of extortion by its officials at permanent voter
card (PVC) collection centres.
In a statement on Thursday signed by Festus Okoye, its
national commissioner and chairman, information and voter education, the
commission said officials found guilty will face disciplinary action.
“The Commission is investigating allegations of extortion by
officials at some of the collection centres and inducement by some unscrupulous
voters to circumvent processes in order to obtain their PVCs. Those found
culpable will face disciplinary action and/or prosecution,” the statement
reads.
“Similarly, the Commission is disturbed by allegations of
discriminatory issuance of PVCs in some locations. This is against the law. All
bonafide registrants are entitled to their PVCs and to use them to vote on
Election Day in any part of the country where they are registered.
“Resident Electoral
Commissioners (RECs) have been directed to ensure that no such practices occur
nationwide and take immediate disciplinary action against violators.”
Meanwhile, there have also been complaints by some persons
over non-availability of their PVCs.
But the commission, in its statement, said it has printed
all PVCs of new registrants and those who requested transfer.
It, however, directed issuing officers to compile complaints
on unavailability of cards.
“The Commission has printed 13,868,441 PVCs for all new
valid registrants as well as applicants for transfer or replacement of cards,”
the statement reads.
“Nevertheless, issuing officers should compile any
complaints about non-availability of cards and forward them to their immediate
supervisors for the attention of Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) who
shall compile and forward them for necessary action.
“The Commission once again appreciates the patience and
perseverance of citizens as we continue to finetune our process to make the
collection of PVCs easier.”
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