In a spirited appeal to eligible residents, Delta State’s Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has urged citizens to actively participate in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
He emphasized that obtaining a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is both a constitutional right and a civic obligation.
Aniagwu’s comments came during a recent sensitization and advocacy engagement organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in partnership with the Delta State Government, held at Unity Hall, Government House in Asaba.
“Every Nigerian aged 18 and above is entitled to register and vote, providing a vital channel for civic engagement,” Aniagwu stated.
He underscored the importance of voter registration as a foundational aspect of democracy, asserting that those who abstain from voting forfeit their moral right to critique governance and leadership.
The Commissioner highlighted the initiative’s focus on reaching young Nigerians who were previously ineligible or who encountered challenges during the last registration period.
He urged citizens to recognize that voting is the most direct means of influencing governance, from local councils to the highest executive offices.
Aniagwu expressed concern over the prevalent misconceptions surrounding voter registration, acknowledging that many potential voters are reluctant to navigate the complexities of registration centers.
This, he noted, underscores the urgent need for ongoing public education to illustrate the significance of participating in the electoral process.
He reiterated the need for continuous collaboration with INEC, referencing the Electoral Act’s provisions that mandate ongoing voter registration efforts.
“Voter registration should not be limited to election seasons; it requires sustained commitment,” he asserted.
Addressing logistical challenges, Aniagwu criticized the limited allocation of registration machines to local government areas, advocating for an increase in resources to enhance accessibility.
He championed the integration of technology to streamline the registration process, suggesting that if citizens can manage complex banking transactions via mobile devices, the same should apply to voter registration.
He stated, “The current process is cumbersome and costly, often requiring multiple trips to registration centers without a guarantee of prompt registration.
“A technology-driven, community-based approach could alleviate these burdens.”
Aniagwu praised INEC for its proactive measures in organizing the sensitization efforts and expressed confidence that ongoing advocacy and stakeholder engagement would yield higher rates of voter registration across Delta State.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to empowering citizens and enhancing democratic participation, ensuring that more Nigerians are prepared and ready to vote in upcoming elections.
