Citypost News Desk
The Anambra State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Mrs. Elizabeth Agwu, has warned that double registration automatically nullifies a citizen’s right to obtain a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), stressing that the Commission will not condone any attempt to beat the system.
Dr. Agwu gave the warning while briefing journalists on the progress of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in the state, as INEC recorded a total of 4,423 registrants in the second phase of the exercise.
She commended the Anambra media community for its pivotal role in information dissemination and public enlightenment, noting that voter registration for the 2027 general elections commenced on January 5, 2026, and is currently in its fifth week. According to her, the exercise will run until April 17, 2026.
The REC cautioned against last-minute registration, observing that many eligible voters usually rush in on the final days; April 15, 16, and 17, thereby creating congestion that hampers efficiency.
Dr. Agwu explained that the INEC State Headquarters in Awka has two registration points, adding that eligible voters can register at the headquarters regardless of their local government area, ward, or polling unit of interest within Anambra State.
Providing a breakdown of the registration figures, she disclosed that no registration was recorded in the first week (January 5–12). However, subsequent weeks showed improved turnout, bringing the cumulative number of registered voters to 4,423 so far.
She urged citizens with damaged PVCs, those seeking change of polling units, and individuals who are yet to collect their PVCs to visit the INEC headquarters in Awka for necessary assistance.
On technology, the REC highlighted improvements in INEC’s systems, noting that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) performed efficiently during the last Anambra governorship election, earning commendation from both local and international observers. She added that recent upgrades have significantly reduced system glitches.
Dr. Agwu also announced that BVAS will be deployed in tertiary institutions, giving university students the opportunity to register within their campuses.
While appreciating the Anambra State Government for its awareness campaigns ahead of the last governorship election, she called for intensified sensitization on the ongoing CVR to complement INEC’s efforts through the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), and traditional channels such as town criers.
Reiterating the dangers of double registration and the importance or obtaining a valid PVC, the REC emphasized that double registration invalidates voters’ franchise, and a PVC serves not only as a voting instrument but also as a critical means of identification and can be used as a tool in population-based planning and federal allocations.
She further revealed that INEC plans to upgrade its system to automatically reject multiple registration attempts, ensuring that once a person registers, the system prevents any future duplication.
