The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that eligible voters who pre-register during the ongoing continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise cannot obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) outside its offices.
The commission stressed that online registration alone does not complete the process, as biometric data must still be captured physically at designated INEC centres.
INEC’s Director of ICT, Bayode Lawrence, explained on The Morning Brief on Channels Television that biometrics remain central to safeguarding voter identity.
“For now, you cannot complete everything at home because we still need to capture your fingerprints. If we could capture biometrics online, there would be no need to visit the centres. But fingerprint capture is essential, and that requires your physical presence,” Lawrence said.
He added that while applicants can upload personal details online, visiting INEC offices remains mandatory to finalise registration and ensure the integrity of the voter register.
According to him, the measure prevents manipulation and duplication of records. He noted that INEC is collaborating with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to integrate national ID card data into future CVR exercises.
Lawrence further explained that voters without internet access can complete registration at local government INEC offices. He also highlighted a portal module that enables voters with damaged cards to report issues, update their details, and obtain replacement PVCs.