The Independent National Electoral Commission in Sokoto State has announced the start of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise, designed to give eligible Nigerians an opportunity to register, transfer their voting details, or replace lost Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday at the Commission’s state headquarters, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Umar Garba, explained that the process would begin with online pre-registration on August 8, 2025, while physical registration across centres would officially commence on August 25, 2025.
“The exercise is a crucial step toward ensuring inclusivity, accuracy, and integrity of the national voters’ register,” Garba said.
He added that registration would run Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the INEC state office and local government area offices across Sokoto.
According to him, the CVR will cater for fresh registrants, those who have relocated and need to transfer their registration, and voters seeking replacement for lost, damaged, or defaced PVCs.
“INEC’s commitment is to accessibility and efficiency. That is why all INEC local government offices in Sokoto, as well as the state headquarters, have been designated as registration centres,” the REC explained.
On eligibility, he noted that registrants are expected to present valid means of identification, including a National Identity Card, birth certificate, international passport, or driver’s licence.
Garba cautioned against multiple registrations, warning that it is a violation of the Electoral Act and attracts prosecution.
“To enhance transparency and minimize fraud, INEC will deploy the Voter Enrollment Device and the Automatic Biometric Identification System to detect multiple entries,” he stated.
He also appealed for support from stakeholders to ensure the success of the exercise.
“The Commission calls on the media, civil society groups, traditional and religious leaders to help with sensitisation and to encourage peaceful conduct throughout the exercise,” he said.
Assuring residents of safety during the process, Garba disclosed that INEC was collaborating with security agencies to provide adequate protection for registrants and officials.
“The power to shape the future of our democracy lies in your hands. Your PVC is your voice. INEC remains committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, and that begins with a clean and inclusive voter register,” he added.
