Just in: 87m PVCs collected, says INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says 87,209,007 permanent voter cards (PVC) have been collected across the country.

Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chairperson, announced the development on Thursday during a media briefing at the national collation centre in Abuja.

The commission had initially fixed December 12 to January 22 for the PVC collection exercise in all LGAs.

The commission then extended the deadline till January 29 and again till February 5.

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Yakubu also has reiterated the commission’s readiness to conduct a free and fair election this weekend, Saturday, February 25.

“This morning, we commenced the movement of sensitive materials to the various Local Government Areas nationwide. By Friday, we will activate the Registration Area Centres (RACs) so that at first light on Saturday, Polling Units will open on time.

“The Commission is committed to free, fair and credible elections in compliance with the electoral legal framework and the letter and spirit of the Peace Accord. All political parties and candidates are hereby reassured of the Commission’s neutrality. Above all, Nigerians should feel confident that their votes will count.

“Over the next two days beginning from tomorrow, Thursday, the Commission will be holding a daily media briefing at 3pm. The briefing will be held at this venue. The purpose is to provide updates on preparations for the elections and to respond to issues that may arise. The briefing is open to political parties, civil society organizations, observers, and the media and security agencies.