Just In: Osun Election: Gunmen Raid INEC PVC Centre, Cart Away Permanent Voter Cards
By Aliyu Oyewole
Panic erupted in Okuku, Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State, after suspected hoodlums invaded a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) distribution centre operated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and carted away several voter cards.
The incident occurred at the Oyinlola DC School, Ward 2, where INEC officials were distributing PVCs to eligible voters ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the venue, disrupted the distribution exercise, and fled with packs of PVCs before security operatives could intervene. The attack caused panic among residents and prospective voters who had gathered to collect their cards.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the incident and said an investigation had commenced to identify and apprehend those responsible. Security agencies have also intensified efforts to recover the stolen PVCs and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from stakeholders, who warned that acts of electoral violence and voter intimidation threaten the credibility of the upcoming election. Political leaders and civil society groups have called for enhanced security at all PVC collection centres across the state.
INEC is yet to announce the number of PVCs stolen but has assured eligible voters that necessary steps will be taken to safeguard the electoral process while working with security agencies to address the situation.
