The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to June 14, giving eligible voters additional time to obtain their cards ahead of the upcoming governorship election in Ekiti State.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ado-Ekiti, where electoral officials, political parties, security agencies, and civil society groups gathered to assess preparations for the June 20 poll.
Speaking at the event, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan said the extension was aimed at ensuring that more registered voters are able to participate in the election. He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent, peaceful, and credible electoral process.
According to him, the Commission has intensified preparations across the state, with a focus on accountability, voter inclusion, and compliance with electoral laws. He noted that stakeholder engagement remains critical to strengthening public trust and confidence in the election.
Amupitan also praised political parties and their candidates for endorsing a peace accord earlier in the campaign season. However, he urged them to ensure that the spirit of the agreement is reflected in the actions of party officials, agents, and supporters throughout the election period.
The INEC chairman disclosed that more than 2,000 persons living with disabilities are expected to participate in the election. To support their participation, the Commission has arranged assistive materials, including Braille ballot guides and magnifying devices for voters with visual impairments and other special needs.
He stressed that every eligible voter deserves equal access to the electoral process, regardless of physical limitations, adding that inclusiveness remains a key component of the Commission’s election strategy.
Amupitan further expressed confidence that voting would commence promptly across all polling units, noting that early commencement would facilitate timely voting, counting, result declaration, and electronic transmission of results.
He called on political actors to maintain peaceful campaigns and avoid actions that could undermine the credibility of the election.
Also speaking at the meeting, Ekiti State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Bunmi Omoseyindemi, disclosed that non-sensitive election materials had already been received and secured, while arrangements for the distribution of sensitive materials were nearing completion.
Security agencies also reassured residents of adequate protection before, during, and after the election. The Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Michael Falade, said comprehensive security measures had been put in place to ensure a peaceful voting exercise.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in the state, Adeniji Aderopo, appealed to political parties and their supporters to embrace tolerance and sportsmanship. He emphasized that elections should be viewed as a democratic contest rather than a conflict among political opponents.
Aderopo further urged political leaders to promote inclusiveness and unity, regardless of the outcome of the election, noting that governance should ultimately serve the interests of all citizens.
