The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) began distributing sensitive materials on Thursday for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State.
The distribution is taking place at the Central Bank of Nigeria’s premises along Ring Road in Benin City, with agents from political parties monitoring the process.
Several commercial buses hired by INEC were lined up for the transportation of the materials to various local government areas.
A total of 2,629,025 registered voters are expected to participate in the election, which has stirred tension in Edo State in recent days.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr. Sam Olumekun, provided updates on voter data.
He noted that out of the total registered voters, 2,249,780, or 85.57%, have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs), while 379,245, representing 14.43%, remain uncollected.
Olumekun explained that the uncollected PVCs reflect the status as of Sunday, September 16, 2024, following an extended period for collection.
INEC has also provided a breakdown of registered voters by gender, age, occupation, and disability to ensure transparency.
The commission continues its preparations for the election to ensure a smooth and fair process.