INEC Warns Against Multiple Registrations as Sokoto Prepares for Voter Enrollment

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Sokoto State has issued a strong warning to Nigerians, urging them to avoid engaging in multiple voter registrations. The state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Umar Garba, stated that such actions are in violation of the Electoral Act and are punishable by law. Garba made the announcement during his first official briefing with the media at the INEC headquarters in Sokoto.

According to the REC, the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which commenced with online pre-registration on August 18, 2025, aims to capture new voters, individuals who have changed locations and need transfers, as well as those looking to replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). He emphasized that physical registration will kick off on August 25 and will be available across all 23 local government areas, at the state INEC office, and other designated centres.

Garba noted that all prospective registrants must present a valid form of identification during the registration process. Accepted IDs include a national identity card, international passport, driver’s license, or a birth certificate. He said this requirement is to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the voter database.

To further strengthen the process and prevent electoral fraud, INEC will utilize the Voter Enrollment Device (VED) and the Automatic Biometric Identification System (ABIS). These technologies are designed to detect duplicate registrations and maintain a credible voter register.