Bayelsa, Get Your PVC! INEC Kicks Off Voter Registration Drive
By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa, Trek Africa Newspaper
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Bayelsa State has launched the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, with online pre-registration starting on August 18, 2025, and in-person registration beginning August 25, 2025.
Bayelsa’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mal. Isah Shaka Ehimeakhe, announced this during a press briefing at INEC’s headquarters in Yenagoa.
Ehimeakhe, who took office on June 17, 2025, stressed that voter registration is both a right and a responsibility for Nigerians aged 18 and above. “The Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is key to voting and contributing to nation-building,” he noted.
According to the Resident Electoral Commissioner, the CVR allows eligible citizens to register, update their details, replace lost or damaged PVCs, or transfer voting locations.
He said, In-person registration will take place at INEC’s Local Government Area Registration Centres across Bayelsa.
He warned that double registration is illegal under Section 114(b) of the Electoral Act 2022, with INEC’s Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) designed to detect violations.
He also declared underage registration unlawful and urged community leaders to report such attempts.
The REC called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to promote the registration drive. He assured a secure and transparent process, supported by collaboration with security agencies.
To ensure timely PVC issuance, Ehimeakhe encouraged early registration and advised those with uncollected PVCs to check the INEC Voter Verification Portal or visit an INEC office adding that INEC is also addressing biometric capture challenges to enhance inclusivity.
“Active participation strengthens democracy. Registering to vote is the first step toward driving change,” Ehimeakhe said.
