By Joy Odor-Abuja
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Gombe State, Dr. Sa’ad Umar, has raised the alarm over more than 60,000 uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in the state, warning that the situation could undermine citizens’ participation in the 2027 general elections.
Dr. Umar made the disclosure during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Gombe and Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, as part of efforts to rally traditional institutions behind the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).
The REC, who briefed the Emir on the CVR timeline online pre-registration which began on August 18, and physical registration that followed on August 25, stressed that mobilizing citizens to register and collect their PVCs is crucial.
He called on traditional and religious leaders to take ownership of sensitization efforts, saying their voices carry significant influence at the grassroots.
Dr. Umar praised the Emir’s longstanding support for INEC’s work, recalling his past advocacy in voter education, PVC collection, and peaceful elections.
In his response, the Emir pledged total commitment to the exercise, directing district and village heads to immediately summon traditional and religious leaders in their domains to drive voter sensitization.
He particularly underscored the role of women in strengthening electoral participation.
The visit featured an interactive session with district and village heads where the REC addressed concerns raised by stakeholders.
He was accompanied by the Acting Administrative Secretary, Fadimatu Aliyu Bakari, and members of the State Management Team.
