As Nigeria gears up for another round of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to citizens: steer clear of multiple registrations or risk being permanently removed from the national voter database.
The caution came from Plateau State’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mohammed Sadiq, during a stakeholders’ engagement held ahead of the CVR resumption. Speaking at the meeting, Sadiq emphasized that voter registration is both a constitutional right and a civic responsibility, urging all eligible Nigerians to take it seriously.
“No one is allowed to vote unless they are properly registered,” he said. “We are calling on all Nigerians who have turned 18 or are yet to register to seize this opportunity and get their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). But let me be clear anyone caught attempting to register more than once will face severe consequences, including total removal from the voters’ register.”
Digital Registration Kicks Off August 18
According to Sadiq, the CVR exercise will officially begin on August 18, starting with an online pre-registration phase that allows eligible citizens to initiate the process virtually.
He explained that the digital portal—www.crv.inecnigeria.org—will be accessible to all Nigerians across the country. Through this platform, users can complete their registration details ahead of a physical biometric capture at designated INEC centers.
“This online registration process is designed for convenience. It can be done anywhere, anytime,” Sadiq noted. “It covers new registrations for those who just turned 18, transfers for those relocating, and re-issuance of lost, damaged, or misplaced PVCs.”
Safeguards in Place Against Non-Citizens and Voter Fraud
INEC has also assured the public that mechanisms are in place to prevent non-Nigerians from participating in the registration exercise. According to the REC, stringent screening measures will be enforced during the process to maintain the integrity of the voters’ roll.
In addition, Sadiq called on community leaders, faith-based institutions, political parties, and other key stakeholders to actively support the awareness campaign. He urged them to help educate eligible residents about the importance of participating in the exercise and doing so lawfully.
