The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has refuted claims that it plans to “destroy over six million uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).”

A statement released by INEC via a statement on Sunday described the reports as “false” and advised the public to disregard them.

The controversy surrounding the uncollected PVCs began when an online report alleged that INEC intended to destroy the cards.

“The report is incorrect. At no time did the Commission contemplate the destruction of uncollected PVCs. The public is advised to discountenance the story,” the statement read on part.

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However, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu clarified that the commission would soon approach the National Assembly with recommendations for electoral reform, including the proposed use of computer-generated slips for voter accreditation.

As of the 2023 presidential election, 87,209,007 PVCs had been collected, representing 93.3% of registered voters. Nevertheless, 6,259,229 PVCs, or 6.7% of the total, remain uncollected.

In a separate development, INEC had proposed withdrawing PVCs that remain uncollected for extended periods, citing the need to declutter the voter register and prevent potential electoral fraud.²

However, the commission’s statement reassures the public that no destruction of PVCs is planned.