INEC Officials in Onitsha Accused of PVC Payment Demands

Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State, have been accused of soliciting ₦2,000 from applicants for the issuance of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Allegations surfaced through a video circulating on social media, where residents claimed that INEC officials requested payment during the application process for PVCs.

Despite the claims, INEC has consistently maintained that the issuance of PVCs is free of charge and does not require any payment. The situation escalated as individuals attempted to record the interaction, leading to heated exchanges.

Although the full circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, INEC reiterated that voter registration and PVC collection services are provided without charge, as per Nigeria's electoral guidelines. The commission advised citizens to report any instances of extortion by officials.

As of now, INEC has not issued a specific statement addressing the allegations from the Onitsha South office.