The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Bayelsa State has initiated the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to eligible voters across the state.

This distribution process is taking place at multiple locations, including the INEC headquarters and 15 residential areas and wards throughout the state.

Vistanaij Media has learned that the distribution aims to cover approximately 33,606 PVCs, with the process commencing on September 12th and scheduled to last for one month, leading up to the gubernatorial election on November 11th.

During a press briefing held at the Prof. Mahmood Yakubu Media Centre in Yenagoa, Barr. Obo Effanga, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, explained that PVC collection points would be established within the local government areas. Furthermore, areas with more than 500 uncollected PVCs would also open for eligible voters to retrieve their cards.

Effanga additionally emphasized the importance of political parties and their gubernatorial candidates engaging directly with voters and actively campaigning for votes. He encouraged them not to solely rely on INEC for victory, highlighting that their success in the election would hinge on effective campaign efforts.

Effanga said, “Nobody should depend on INEC for victory that was what I told them in a recent workshop. The only way anybody will win the forthcoming election is for their parties to canvass for votes from the electorates. Talk to voters.

“Preparations for the election is ongoing, I’m assuring Bayelsans that INEC will do all her best to conduct a very good election, in respect to what the constitution, electoral acts, and the guideline of the elections says. 

“The only way anybody can win election is through their campaigns to the people, we will not interfere by any means to assist anyone to win election. We will ensure all personnel sent to the field are adequately qualified and very knowledgeable about the processes of election. 

“Meeting with security agencies are ongoing, trainings have started. We will ensure materials are sent to all the 105 wards, and the 2244 polling units in the state. We will ensure materials are deployed to the areas.

“As we speak most of all the non sensitive materials have been deployed to the areas where the elections will be conducted. The sensitive materials will also be sent there when they arrive. 

“The areas that are difficult to reach, our plans is that we move early and get there on time so we don’t disenfranchise anybody. Also considering the issue of security, we will not also get to a place earlier than arrange so that our material and personnels don’t get compromised. We are considering all that in handling our deployment.”