Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explore alternative identification methods to enhance inclusivity and transparency in the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of allowing voters to use other forms of identification beyond the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) to prevent disenfranchisement.
Speaking at the Ogun State local government election after casting his vote at the U.A.M.C. Polling Unit in Pahayi, Ilaro, Adeola highlighted the potential of using National Identity Numbers (NIN) and Driver’s Licences as additional means of voter verification. He stated that such measures could mitigate challenges associated with PVCs and streamline the voting experience for Nigerians.
Adeola proposed that passports and national identity cards could be used alongside the PVC to confirm voter identity. However, he acknowledged that the current electoral law does not accommodate these alternatives, and legal amendments would be necessary for their implementation.
“I strongly believe that mitigating voter disenfranchisement by using other forms of identification is a positive step. However, this requires a thorough and lawful process to amend the Electoral Act to recognize these alternatives,” Adeola stated.
He added, “For now, the PVC remains the only legally recognized voter identification. If other forms are to be introduced, the necessary legislative steps must be taken to ensure transparency and legality.”
The senator commended the peaceful conduct of the election in Ogun West Senatorial District and across the state, noting impressive voter turnout. “It has been a very peaceful election process across my senatorial district and the state. The turnout at my polling unit was impressive, and I expect the numbers to grow as awareness of the voting process spreads,” he remarked.
Adeola also praised the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) for organizing an efficient electoral process, making it accessible for voters.
The senator’s advocacy aligns with calls from civil society organizations like Yiaga Africa, which have recommended the inclusion of national ID cards, passports, and driver’s licences as valid forms of voter identification. Such reforms aim to expand voter participation and safeguard citizens’ fundamental rights to vote.
