The Lagos State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its efforts towards facilitating the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of forthcoming elections, while raising concerns over alleged plans by individuals suspected to be linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to collect and hoard voters’ cards. The party urged the electoral umpire to strengthen safeguards against electoral manipulation and ensure that every eligible voter has unhindered access to their PVC.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 12, 2026, by its State Publicity Secretary, Ayodele Kazeem, the party acknowledged INEC’s ongoing efforts to improve electoral participation but emphasised the need for transparency, accessibility and strict adherence to electoral regulations. APM called on Lagos residents to collect their voter cards personally from designated INEC centres rather than entrusting politicians, political agents or unauthorised individuals with the responsibility. According to the party, the PVC remains a powerful democratic instrument through which citizens can determine their leaders, demand accountability and influence policies affecting their welfare, security and economic prosperity.
The opposition party expressed concern over information allegedly suggesting that certain individuals linked to the APC were moving around communities collecting passport photographs and personal information from residents under the guise of facilitating the collection of unclaimed PVCs. APM claimed that such activities could potentially be intended to enable unauthorised bulk collection and withholding of voter cards until election day, thereby creating opportunities for voter manipulation or undue political influence. However, the party acknowledged that the allegations had not been independently established and called on INEC and relevant security agencies to investigate the claims thoroughly before drawing conclusions or taking appropriate action against anyone found culpable.
Kazeem further urged INEC to publicly clarify the procedures governing PVC collection, reinforce measures against unauthorised access to voter cards and demonstrate absolute impartiality in dealing with all political parties. He warned that any action or omission capable of creating the impression of preferential treatment for the APC or any other political party could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. The party maintained that electoral credibility depends not only on conducting elections but also on ensuring that citizens can register, collect their cards and exercise their voting rights without intimidation, coercion or interference.
The Lagos APM spokesperson also called on residents to remain vigilant against individuals requesting sensitive personal information under questionable circumstances, urging them to verify all voter registration and collection arrangements directly with INEC. He stressed that Nigerians must resist attempts to compromise their democratic rights through inducements, manipulation or unauthorised possession of their voter cards. “Do not surrender your PVC to anyone. Do not allow politicians to determine your electoral choices. Do not exchange your democratic rights for temporary inducements. Your PVC is your power. Protect it. Your vote is your voice. Use it wisely,” Kazeem declared, reaffirming the party’s commitment to credible elections, voter protection and democratic accountability under its “Nigeria First” philosophy.
