Alternative Voting Methods Likely but Needs Electoral Act Amendment, Says INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has signaled its willingness to explore alternative voting methods beyond the current Permanent Voter Card (PVC) system but that any such shift would require amendments to the existing electoral laws.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, had earlier hinted at the possibility of using computer-generated slips or downloaded from the commission’s website for voter accreditation. This approach, he argued, would reduce costs, alleviate logistical challenges, and prevent the misuse of voter cards.
The proposed change is expected to build on the success of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which has streamlined the electoral process.
INEC believes that reviewing the current PVC-only system could enhance voter access and improve the overall efficiency of the electoral process.
However, INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, clarified that any changes to the voting procedure would necessitate corresponding legal amendments. “The law needs to be amended to reflect it,” he stressed, highlighting the importance of legislative backing for any such reforms.
The development underscores INEC’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the electoral process. As the commission explores alternative voting methods, it remains crucial to ensure that any changes are grounded in law and promote the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
