The Independent National Electoral Commission expressed deep concern about voter engagement in Yobe State. Officials highlighted a large number of unclaimed Permanent Voter Cards. This issue emerged during preparations for upcoming elections.
Disclosure at News Conference
Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi served as the state Resident Electoral Commissioner. He revealed the figures at a news conference in Damaturu. The event occurred on Tuesday. Abdullahi stated that 42,756 PVCs remained from previous electoral processes. However registrants collected only 1,100 since the exercise resumed on August 18, 2025.
As a result, 41,656 PVCs stayed unclaimed across the state. He appealed to owners to pick up their cards. People could collect them at INEC offices in the 17 local government areas.
Challenges in Registration
Abdullahi identified several obstacles that affected turnout. Seasonal farming activities hindered participation. Insecurity posed risks to potential voters. Difficult terrain made access challenging. Additionally disproportionate registrant numbers contributed to the low collection rate.
Therefore the commission reviewed phase one of the Continuous Voter Registration. They noted the low turnout at some centers.
Approval for Devolved Registration
INEC approved a new approach to boost registration. They devolved the exercise to Residential Areas or wards. This change took effect for 50 days. The period ran from February 2, 2026, to April 10, 2026.
During the last week, officials conducted registration at local government offices. Abdullahi explained the necessity. “The approval became necessary after a review of phase one of the CVR revealed low turnout at some centres due to several challenges,” he said.
Call to Stakeholders
The REC urged stakeholders to take action. They needed to educate citizens on registration importance. People should understand voting’s role in the 2027 general elections. Furthermore stakeholders had to encourage ownership of the electoral process.
However Abdullahi issued a warning. He cautioned the public against fraudsters. “The Commission does not charge fees for registration,” he noted.
Structure of the Exercise
The voter registration resumed on August 18, 2025. It prepared for the 2027 general election. Officials structured it in three phases. Phase one ended on December 21, 2025.
They displayed the preliminary voters’ register for claims and objections. The second phase continued from January 5, 2026. In addition, this ongoing effort aimed to increase participation.
Implications for Democracy
Unclaimed cards raised questions about voter apathy. Low collection rates could affect election turnout. However INEC focused on outreach. They sought to ensure more citizens engaged in the process.
Through these measures, officials hoped to strengthen democracy in Yobe State. The actions reflected a commitment to inclusive elections.
