Allegations of extortion and physical assault have emerged against INEC officials in Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a viral video showing staff demanding money from applicants seeking to collect their Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs. The incident, which reportedly took place at the INEC office in the area, has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria. According to the video, one official, identified as Mrs Otito, allegedly asked for N2,000 from applicants before processing their PVCs, despite INEC’s clear policy that all voter-related services are free.
The resident who recorded the incident claimed that when an applicant refused to pay and insisted on the free nature of the service, a heated argument erupted. The confrontation escalated when Mrs Otito allegedly physically assaulted the applicant, reportedly biting a young woman on the breast as she tried to intervene and calm the situation. The audio in the video, captured in Igbo, reflects the tension and anger during the exchange, adding credibility to the claims made by the complainant.
INEC has consistently emphasized that voter registration, PVC collection, transfer of voter information, correction of personal details, and replacement of lost or damaged cards are all free services. The commission has urged citizens to report any instances of bribery or misconduct by its officials or temporary staff involved in electoral activities. Despite the widespread circulation of the video and growing public concern, INEC has not yet issued an official statement addressing the specific allegations from the Onitsha South office as of the time of this report.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring transparency and accountability within electoral institutions, particularly at the grassroots level. It also underscores the need for stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power and protect citizens’ rights to participate in democratic processes without fear of harassment or financial exploitation. As the video continues to circulate on social media, pressure is mounting on INEC to investigate the claims thoroughly and take appropriate disciplinary action if necessary.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system. With upcoming elections on the horizon, incidents like this could erode public trust in the electoral process if not addressed promptly and transparently. The public is now watching closely to see how INEC will respond to these serious allegations and whether steps will be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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