INEC in Rivers State has warned residents against multiple voter registrations during the ongoing exercise.
The Commission stressed that offenders will face prosecution while urging citizens to register once, early, and responsibly.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State has issued a warning to residents participating in the ongoing voter registration exercise, urging them to avoid the offense of multiple registrations.
Speaking in Port Harcourt, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Gabriel Yomere, stressed that anyone caught attempting to register more than once would face prosecution. He noted that the Commission has adopted a strict zero-tolerance approach to electoral malpractices, including double registration, which undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s elections.
According to him, the exercise is designed specifically for individuals who have just turned eighteen and for citizens who have never been registered before. He pointed out that voter registration is not a routine administrative task but the foundation of credible elections.
Professor Yomere encouraged newly eligible residents to take advantage of the exercise as early as possible, instead of waiting until deadlines draw near. He explained that rushing at the final moment often leads to unnecessary delays, congestion at registration centers, and difficulties that can easily be avoided.
He further described the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) as a vital tool that empowers citizens to determine their leaders and contribute meaningfully to governance. In his words, registering to vote is the first step toward building a better society, since elections cannot be free and fair without accurate voter records.
The REC also reminded residents that the Commission has consistently worked to improve transparency and trust in the electoral process. He maintained that INEC will continue to protect the credibility of its register, while ensuring every eligible citizen has the opportunity to be included.
