No PVC, No Problem: INEC Moves to Legalize Tech-Based Voting by 2027

​The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed significant electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections, including the introduction of computer-generated voting slips as an alternative to the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) for voter accreditation. This initiative aims to enhance the voting process by leveraging the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).​
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, announced this development during a quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja. He emphasized that while existing PVC holders can still use them, voters will also have the option to present computer-generated slips, which can be issued by INEC or downloaded from its website, for accreditation on election day. This measure is intended to reduce costs and address challenges related to PVC collection and misuse. ​

This proposal is part of a broader set of 142 recommendations identified by INEC to improve Nigeria's electoral process.These recommendations cover various aspects, including voter management, electoral operations, result management, election technology, and voter education. Of these, 86 require administrative action by INEC, 48 involve collaboration with stakeholders, and 8 necessitate legislative amendments by the National Assembly. ​

Additional reforms under consideration include early or special voting provisions for essential election workers, such as INEC officials, security personnel, and journalists, as well as the introduction of diaspora voting. INEC also plans to establish an electoral offences tribunal and a separate agency to handle the registration and regulation of political parties. ​
These proposed changes are part of INEC's ongoing efforts to modernize Nigeria's electoral system, improve voter access, and ensure the integrity of the voting process.​

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