The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Sokoto State has initiated the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, a crucial process designed to update and refine the voter register in preparation for the 2027 general elections. This initiative aims to enfranchise all eligible citizens, ensuring their participation in the democratic process. The CVR exercise will encompass various voter registration needs, including new registrations, transfer of registration for relocated voters, and replacement of lost, damaged, or defaced Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The exercise underscores INEC’s commitment to fostering a comprehensive and accurate voter register, reflective of the current electorate.

The CVR exercise will unfold in two phases. The initial phase, commencing on August 8, 2025, involves online pre-registration. This online platform provides a convenient and accessible avenue for eligible citizens to initiate their registration process. The second phase, beginning on August 25, 2025, transitions to physical registration at designated centers. These centers will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily, Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays, offering ample opportunity for citizens to complete their registration. All INEC local government area offices and the state headquarters will serve as registration centers, ensuring widespread accessibility and efficient service delivery.

To participate in the CVR exercise, eligible citizens are required to present valid identification documents. Acceptable forms of identification include the National Identity Card, birth certificate, international passport, or driver’s license. This requirement aims to verify the identity of registrants and prevent fraudulent activities. INEC has implemented robust measures to maintain the integrity of the voter register. The commission has explicitly warned against multiple registrations, emphasizing that such actions constitute a violation of the Electoral Act and will result in prosecution.

INEC is leveraging technology to enhance transparency and minimize the risk of fraud. The Voter Enrollment Device (VED) and the Automatic Biometric Identification System (ABIS) will be deployed to detect and prevent multiple entries. These technological tools will play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the voter register. Furthermore, INEC is actively collaborating with security agencies to create a secure and conducive environment for both registrants and staff during the registration exercise.

INEC has appealed for broad-based support to ensure the success of the CVR exercise. The commission calls upon the media, civil society groups, traditional and religious leaders to actively participate in sensitization efforts, disseminating information about the CVR exercise and encouraging eligible citizens to register. INEC also emphasizes the importance of peaceful conduct during the registration period, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

The commission encourages citizens to play an active role in safeguarding the integrity of the registration process. Residents are urged to report any instances of obstruction, extortion, or irregularities at registration centers. This collaborative approach will help ensure a transparent and fair registration process. INEC reiterates its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, emphasizing that a clean and inclusive voter register forms the bedrock of a robust democratic process. The commission underscores the importance of citizen participation, highlighting that the PVC serves as a powerful tool for expressing one’s voice and shaping the future of democracy.

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