INEC, NOA Launch Full-Scale Push for Mass Voter Registration in Ekiti

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has announced its preparedness to collaborate closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a smooth execution of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Ekiti State, set to commence on August 18.

According to iReporter Online, the NOA State Director, Mrs. Oluwakemi Akomolede, gave the assurance during a sensitization programme held in Ado Ekiti. She emphasized the importance of mass participation by eligible citizens who are yet to register, encouraging them to seize the opportunity to visit INEC offices and designated centers across the state to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Mrs. Akomolede explained that the agency would be conducting statewide sensitization efforts throughout the month, with a particular focus on grassroots communities to drive awareness and mobilize turnout for the exercise.

At a separate stakeholders meeting, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ekiti State, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, reiterated the commission’s readiness to facilitate a hitch-free CVR process. The meeting included representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, religious groups, and market associations.

Dr. Omoseyindemi clarified that online registration would begin on August 18, while physical registration is scheduled to commence on August 25. He identified eligible participants as newly eligible voters who have turned 18, as well as those who have never registered before. The exercise will also allow for transfers of registration, corrections of personal data, and reissuance of lost or damaged voter cards.

The REC firmly warned against underage registration and the involvement of non-Nigerians in the process, noting that anyone found guilty of such infractions would face prosecution. He stressed that INEC is constitutionally mandated to maintain the integrity of the National Register of Voters and would not tolerate violations.

Describing the voter registration as a critical step in the advancement of democracy, Omoseyindemi called on all stakeholders to play an active role in sensitizing the public. He assured that INEC would deploy appropriate technologies and uphold transparency, ensuring the exercise remains inclusive, lawful, and accessible.

The commissioner urged political parties to encourage legal participation from their members and cautioned against actions that may lead to multiple registrations or other breaches of electoral regulations.