The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that over 1.9 million Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) have been collected in Osun State ahead of the scheduled August 15, 2026, governorship election. According to INEC, a total of 1,906,390 PVCs have been picked up by registered voters, representing 81.50 per cent of the state’s total registered electorate of 2,339,233. This means that 426,842 PVCs remain uncollected, accounting for 18.50 per cent of the registered voters. The update was shared by Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, during a briefing on Thursday.
Haruna emphasized that the high collection rate reflects growing voter engagement and preparedness across Osun State. He urged remaining voters who have not yet collected their PVCs to do so as soon as possible to avoid disenfranchisement during the upcoming election. “Voter card collection is a critical step towards ensuring free, fair, and credible elections,” Haruna stated. He also reminded citizens that only those with valid PVCs would be eligible to vote in the 2026 governorship poll.
INEC continues to deploy mobile registration and collection units to remote areas to improve accessibility. These efforts aim to reach voters who may face logistical challenges in visiting designated collection centers. The commission has also encouraged the use of its online portal for checking PVC collection status and locating nearest pickup points. Citizens are advised to verify their details and ensure their names appear on the updated voter register before election day.
The 2026 governorship election in Osun State will be closely watched as it follows a pattern of competitive political contests in the region. With several political parties already positioning their candidates, voter turnout is expected to be high. INEC has reiterated its commitment to transparency, security, and inclusivity throughout the electoral process. The commission is also working with security agencies and civil society organizations to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment during the election.
As the campaign season approaches, stakeholders are calling for increased civic education to deepen public understanding of the electoral process. INEC’s ongoing voter education programs are designed to inform citizens about their rights, responsibilities, and how to use their PVCs effectively. The agency remains focused on building trust and confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions through consistent communication and operational efficiency.
With just under two years until the election, the current PVC collection figures indicate strong early participation. However, INEC warns that failure to collect the remaining cards could lead to significant numbers of eligible voters being unable to cast ballots. The commission will continue monitoring collection trends and adjusting strategies to maximize voter inclusion. The outcome of this election could shape the political landscape of Osun State and influence national dynamics in the coming years.
Leave a Comment