By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
With 100 days to the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections, the Presidential Candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and reject any attempt to induce them with money or other benefits in exchange for their votes.
Peter Obi Media Office, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Idris Zekeri Jnr, on Thursday, also alleged that some political actors were exploiting the economic hardship in the country to compromise the electoral process.
It specifically alleged that some state governors were collecting the PVCs of citizens, including civil servants, in exchange for payment of their salaries and allowances.
The media office, however, did not identify the states or governors allegedly involved or provide evidence to substantiate the claims.
The statement urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against anyone offering money or other inducements in exchange for their votes, PVCs or participation in activities capable of compromising the electoral process.
“Your PVC is not for sale. Your vote is not for sale. Your future is not for sale,” the statement said.
It advised registered voters to collect their PVCs, keep them secure and avoid surrendering them to individuals or political groups.
The office also urged Nigerians to reject bribes and report suspected electoral manipulation to the appropriate authorities.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027.
INEC added that about 1.3 million registered voters are expected to participate in the 2026 general election.
According to the electoral commission, voters are required to present their physical PVC for verification through the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) before they can vote.
The Obi Media Office called on Nigerians to participate actively in the election and vote according to their conscience.
“On election day, turn out, vote according to your conscience, protect your ballot, and insist that your vote counts,” it said.
It further urged voters to defend their votes through lawful means and protect the democratic process.
The statement came as political parties and their candidates intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with public campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly polls already permitted under the electoral timetable.
The media office said Nigerians should not allow immediate financial inducements to determine their political choices, urging citizens to consider the long-term implications of their votes.
“Hold your PVC firmly. Use it responsibly. Defend your vote legally. Defend your democracy and create a new Nigeria that will be possible and OK,” the statement added.
