2015: House of Reps approves temporary voters’ cards

2015: House of Reps approves temporary voters’ cards

The Nigerian House of Representatives on Tuesday approved the use of
temporary voters cards by Nigerians for the 2015 general elections.
This brings respite to Nigerians that have complained and condemned the
distribution of the Permanent Voters Cards since the Independent National
Electoral Commission (INEC) began distribution of the cards.

INEC had severally had to explain to Nigerians why some people who registered
and have the temporary voters cards could not find get the Permanent Voters
Cards during distribution.

Some Nigerians including politicians had accused the electoral umpire of planning
something sinister ahead of the elections.
Some others claimed it may be a ploy by some politicians to rig elections by
making sure that people in areas where they are not sure of votes do not get
their cards.

Confirming the approval through a series of tweets on Tuesday, a member of the
House representing Surulere Federal Constituency, Femi Gbajabiamila, said the
House agreed that those who do not have the Permanent Voters Cards should be
allowed by INEC to exercise their rights during the elections.
“Today on the floor of House of Representatives, I presented a motion to enable
Nigerians use Temporary Voters’ Card during 2015 elections
“Data of such persons must be verifiable on the voters register at the polling
center on day of election.

“The motion would ensure registered and eligible voters will not be
disenfranchised in the 2015 general elections.

“My colleagues supported the motion to use Temporary Voters Cards on (the) day
of election and it therefore scaled through.

“House concluded that INEC should include in its election guidelines a provision(s)
allowing registered voters with TVC (temporary voters cards) to vote,”
Gbajabiamila said.