The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for collecting Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Edo State.

Voters can now collect their PVCs from 13th to 15th September in preparation for the state’s governorship election scheduled for 21st September.

Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner, made the announcement in Benin.

According to Olumekun, the extension was a result of appeals from stakeholders, including political party leaders, candidates, traditional and religious figures, and civil society groups, all of whom expressed concerns over the initial deadline.

“In response to stakeholders’ appeals, we are extending PVC collection by three days, from Friday, 13th September to Sunday, 15th September. PVCs will be available at our 18 local government offices across the state from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily,” Olumekun said.

He encouraged all eligible voters who had not yet collected their cards to take advantage of the new deadline. “There will be no collection by proxy, in accordance with INEC’s policy,” he emphasised.

During an earlier interactive meeting, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, addressed electoral and security concerns raised by stakeholders in preparation for the upcoming election.

This extension aims to ensure a greater number of voters participate in the election, which promises to be a significant political event in the state.