Veteran journalist and public affairs commentator, Oseni Rufai, has cautioned Nigerians against handing over their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) under the guise of political party membership registration, warning that such practices could undermine the integrity of future elections.
Rufai issued the warning in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, describing the demand for voters’ cards during party registration exercises as a subtle but dangerous tactic aimed at electoral manipulation.
According to him, requesting voters’ cards as a prerequisite for party membership is a “smart way to rig elections,” as it compromises citizens’ constitutional right to freely choose their representatives. He warned that surrendering a voter’s card, even temporarily, amounts to relinquishing one’s franchise.
“Don’t give your voters card to anyone on the pretext of party membership registration,” Rufai advised, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any scheme that could disenfranchise them.
He stressed that political participation should not come at the cost of personal electoral freedom, adding that citizens must protect their voting rights to ensure credible and transparent democratic processes.
READ ALSO: 2027: Voters Registration to Begin from August 25 — INEC
Rufai encouraged Nigerians to stay informed, assert their rights, and remain at liberty to elect leaders of their choice without coercion or manipulation, especially as political activities intensify ahead of future elections.
His warning has since sparked conversations online, with many users echoing concerns about voter suppression and calling for greater public awareness and regulatory oversight of political party activities.