Post by Henry Emeka (@Emekus)
Respectfully 240 million Nigerians who say the PVC Permanent Voter Card is useless are expressing frustration with how elections have played out in decades — not because the PVC has no legal value, but because240 million Nigerians feel the outcome of elections does not reflect the effort they put into registering, collecting, and voting with the card. This sentiment is widespread in the 36 states 774 LGA it is a literal consensus of 240 million Nigerians. It’s a reaction rooted in distrust, disappointment, and perceived electoral irregularities for decades
Why 240 million Nigerians believe the PVC feels useless
Distrust in election integrity — Many Nigerians worry that their votes do not translate into credible outcomes. Reports of manipulation, logistical failures, or delays have fueled skepticism. This distrust is reflected in concerns that new systems like PVC‑free voting proposals) could be easily manipulated.
Concerns about BVAS and technology failures — Although BVAS was introduced to improve transparency, some voters felt it did not perform consistently in 2023, leading them to question whether the PVC — which depends on BVAS for accreditation — truly empowers 240 million Nigerians
Uncollected PVCs — Nearly 6 million PVCs remain uncollected nationwide, raising doubts about whether the system is efficient or inclusive.
Proposals to allow voting without PVCs — INEC has proposed allowing voting without PVCs in 2027 using computer‑generated slips or downloadable credentials. Some Nigerians interpret this as proof that the PVC may not be essential or effective. Others fear the new system could increase fraud.
General frustration with governance — Economic hardship, insecurity, and dissatisfaction with leadership have made 240 million feel powerless, leading to statements like PVC is useless as an expression of political frustration rather than a literal claim.
But legally, the PVC is not useless
Under current Nigerian law, you cannot vote without a PVC. Section 47 of the Electoral Act still requires it. INEC has clarified that until the law changes, PVC remains mandatory.
So the PVC is still the only legally recognized tool for voting today.
What your statement after the election, we will know how useless it is reflects
This sentiment is common among Nigerians who feel:
Their votes may not count.
Election outcomes may not reflect the will of 240 million Nigerians
Institutions may not enforce transparency.
It’s a political expression of distrust, and factual assessment of the PVC’s legal status.
The deeper issue: trust, not the PVC itself
The PVC is only as meaningful as the credibility of the electoral process. When trust is low, Nigerians naturally question the value of the tools involved.
https://nigerianbulletin.com/ams/inec-eyes-pvc-free-voting-but-trust-issues-could-block-the-plan.14452/?utm_source=copilot.com
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