30/07/2026
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Benue State, participated in a radio programme on Agate Radio 95.5 FM Makurdi titled, Beyond the Ballot”, the theme was, “The Review of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) Exercise in Benue State Ahead of the 2027 General Elections."
The programme focused on reviewing the recently concluded CVR exercise, preparations for the 2027 General Elections, voter participation, and other critical electoral issues.
During the programme, the Head of Unit, Voter Registration Process, of the ICT & Voter Registey Department, Mrs. Iember Adzape, highlighted that the CVR exercise was largely successful, recording significant participation from eligible citizens across the State, particularly young people. She further explained that while the exercise had officially ended, all registration data would undergo the Commission's standard verification and data-cleaning processes before the final register of voters is published.
The Commission also clarified that the final Local Government Area-by-Local Government Area breakdown of new registrations, transfers, replacement requests, and updates would be released after the completion of the verification process.
Consequently, members of the public were advised to rely only on official INEC publications for authentic registration statistics.
On the issue of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), the Commission assured registrants that the production and distribution of new PVCs would commence after the completion of all statutory registration processes. Eligible registrants were encouraged to await official announcements regarding the dates, venues, and procedures for PVC collection. The Commission also reiterated its commitment to intensifying voter education campaigns to encourage the collection of both newly produced and previously uncollected PVCs.
The Head of Unit, further addressed voter apathy and emphasised that sustained voter education remains a key priority for the Commission. Reaffirming the INEC’s commitment to collaborating with political parties, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), civil society organisations, the media, traditional and religious institutions, youth groups, and other stakeholders to promote civic education, strengthen public confidence, and encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
Responding to questions on the restoration of constituencies in Benue State, she stated that INEC remains committed to implementing valid court judgments in accordance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and all applicable legal procedures, while awaiting the completion of all necessary legal processes where applicable.
In conclusion, Mrs. Adzape reassured the people of Benue State of the Commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, credible, inclusive, and transparent elections in 2027. Citizens were encouraged to collect their Permanent Voter Cards when available, obtain electoral information from official INEC sources, participate peacefully in the electoral process, and continue to play their role in strengthening Nigeria's democracy.