The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has pledged a smooth and transparent process as it prepares to commence the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Bayelsa State.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday in Yenagoa, the state capital, the newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Isah Ehimeakhe, announced that the exercise will begin on August 18 via INEC’s official portal. He also revealed that new innovations will be introduced to enhance the process.
Ehimeakhe stressed the importance of adhering to electoral guidelines, warning against underage and multiple registrations. He noted that the Commission’s Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) is equipped to detect and prevent duplicate entries.
“If you have already been issued a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) or have previously completed the registration process, there is no need to register again,” he said.
“Attempting to do so constitutes double registration, a punishable offence under Section 114(b) of the Electoral Act 2022, which carries penalties including fines, imprisonment, or both.”
He reiterated that voter registration is both a constitutional right and civic duty, emphasizing that no one can vote without being properly registered. The Commission, he said, remains committed to protecting the voting rights of all eligible Nigerians.
“INEC is determined to ensure that no eligible citizen is denied the opportunity to register or vote,” he stated.
“We will work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to guarantee a secure, inclusive, and transparent registration process.”
Ehimeakhe also appealed to all stakeholders — including traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, civil society groups, youth and women organisations, and the media — to mobilize and support the voter registration campaign.
