The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised concerns over reports of an alleged organised operation to purchase and collect Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from citizens in parts of Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party said it had received multiple reports alleging that individuals were offering money to vulnerable citizens in exchange for their PVCs.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said it was taking steps to document the reports and gather credible evidence.
The party noted that a PVC collected from its rightful owner could not ordinarily be used by another person because voter accreditation involves biometric verification.
It, however, expressed concern that the alleged collection of PVCs could be aimed at preventing targeted citizens from participating in elections.
“This is not ordinary vote-buying. A PVC collected from its rightful owner cannot ordinarily be used by another person because accreditation requires biometric verification. The real objective may therefore be to prevent targeted citizens from voting altogether,” the party said.
The ADC called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to investigate the allegations and take appropriate legal action if violations were established.
The party also urged Nigerians approached by alleged PVC buyers to refuse to surrender their cards, preserve any available evidence and report such incidents to INEC or security agencies.
The ADC further called on civil society organisations, election observers, the media, traditional and religious leaders, and community associations to intensify voter education and sensitisation ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party stressed that citizens should retain their PVCs and protect their right to participate in choosing their leaders.
Share this content:
About The Author
