The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akwa Ibom State has announced that preparations for the upcoming elections are in top gear, with robust administrative measures already in full swing.
According to the commission, critical components of the electoral roadmap—including comprehensive staff training, strategic stakeholder engagements, and extensive local council voter sensitization campaigns—are actively underway to ensure a seamless exercise.
Speaking as a guest on XL FM’s Super Breakfast Show, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Professor Anugbum Onuoha, provided key updates regarding the readiness of the electoral body.
During the broadcast, Professor Onuoha clarified that the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) currently available for collection at designated centers are strictly designated for citizens who completed their voter registration between August and December 2025.
Despite the ongoing mobilization efforts, Professor Onuoha expressed notable concern over the current low turnout of residents coming forward to claim their cards.
Official commission records indicate that as of October 13, only 18,533 PVCs have been collected across the state—a statistical figure that falls significantly below the commission’s expectations and projected targets.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner emphasized that possessing the voter card is a vital component of civic responsibility ahead of the impending polls.
He strongly urged all eligible citizens to go beyond the initial registration phase by proactively visiting collection points to pick up their cards, carefully verifying their personal details on the official voters’ register, and ultimately turning out en masse to cast their ballots on election day.
INEC continues to call on community leaders, youth organizations, and the media in Akwa Ibom State to amplify sensitization messages and encourage eligible voters to bridge the collection gap.
With the electoral timeline drawing closer, the commission remains hopeful that public response will improve significantly as local outreach initiatives intensify across the state’s various councils.
