The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ondo State has announced the commencement of a new Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, slated to begin on August 18, 2025, with online pre-registration, followed by in-person registration on August 25, 2025. This initiative aims to enfranchise eligible citizens and update the voter register ahead of future elections. The commission revealed that out of the 2,053,061 registered voters in the state, only 1,757,205 have collected their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs), leaving a significant number of 295,856 PVCs uncollected. INEC emphasized the importance of voter registration as the cornerstone of democratic participation and urged eligible citizens to seize this opportunity to exercise their civic right.
The CVR exercise is designed to cater to various categories of citizens, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in the electoral process. This includes first-time voters who have recently turned 18, those who missed previous registration exercises, individuals seeking to transfer their registration to new locations, and voters who encountered accreditation issues during past elections. Additionally, the exercise provides an avenue for registered voters to update their information and for those with damaged, defaced, or lost PVCs to obtain replacements. This comprehensive approach seeks to address a wide spectrum of voter registration needs, thereby strengthening the electoral system.
The CVR exercise is scheduled to run until August 2026, with a temporary suspension planned for December 2025 to allow INEC to process the collected data. This pause will enable the commission to efficiently manage the information gathered during the initial phase of the exercise, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the voter register. By meticulously processing the data, INEC aims to create a robust and reliable voter database that reflects the current demographic landscape of Ondo State. This meticulous approach underscores INEC’s commitment to maintaining the credibility of the electoral process.
INEC’s Resident Electoral Officer (REC) in Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, emphasized the commission’s dedication to transparency, professionalism, and inclusivity throughout the CVR exercise. She assured the public that INEC will provide timely and accessible information about the process, fostering open communication with the media and stakeholders. This commitment to transparency aims to build public trust and confidence in the electoral system, reinforcing the democratic principles of accountability and openness. By engaging with the media and the public, INEC seeks to create a collaborative environment for the successful implementation of the CVR exercise.
Mrs. Babalola highlighted INEC’s proactive efforts to ensure a smooth and efficient registration process. The commission’s commitment to continuous improvement in its communication channels will facilitate seamless information dissemination, empowering citizens to actively participate in the CVR exercise. This proactive approach reflects INEC’s dedication to enhancing the electoral experience for all stakeholders. By streamlining communication and providing readily available information, INEC aims to reduce barriers to participation and foster a culture of informed civic engagement.
The forthcoming CVR exercise represents a crucial step in strengthening democratic participation in Ondo State. By offering a comprehensive and accessible registration process, INEC aims to enfranchise all eligible citizens and ensure that their voices are heard in future elections. The commission’s emphasis on transparency, inclusivity, and effective communication underscores its dedication to conducting credible and participatory elections that truly reflect the will of the people. The success of this exercise hinges on the active participation of eligible citizens and the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in upholding the democratic principles that underpin the electoral process.
