INEC Unveils Bold Reforms: Diaspora Voting, PVC Phase-Out on the Horizon
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has outlined transformative reforms aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s electoral system, drawing lessons from the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls. Key proposals include the introduction of diaspora voting and the gradual phasing out of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, shared the plans during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja on Thursday. He highlighted the shift towards computer-generated voter slips or downloadable credentials for accreditation, replacing PVCs to cut costs and curb voter card manipulation.
“These changes will save costs and eliminate the menace of voter card buying, which disenfranchises citizens,” Yakubu stated.
Other major reforms include early voting for Nigerians unable to vote at their polling units, the establishment of an electoral offences tribunal, and a new agency to oversee political party registration. INEC also plans to enhance voter access, streamline result transmission processes, and boost voter education to combat misinformation.
The recommendations are part of a comprehensive 524-page review of the 2023 elections, featuring 142 suggestions. Of these, 86 require administrative action, 48 call for collaboration with stakeholders like security agencies and civil society, and eight necessitate legislative amendments.
Yakubu assured that the proposals would soon be presented to the National Assembly for deliberation. “These reforms are designed to build a more transparent, inclusive, and efficient electoral system,” he said.
INEC’s push for innovation underscores its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s electoral process evolves with the times, fostering greater trust and participation among voters.
 has outlined transformative reforms aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s electoral system, drawing lessons from the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls. Key proposals include the introduction of diaspora voting and the gradual phasing out of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).){kind=link}