2027 Elections: Kalu Urges South East to Embrace Voter Registration

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on the people of the South East to take full advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Kalu expressed concern over what he described as the “alarming low turnout” of eligible voters from the region compared to other geopolitical zones.

According to data released by INEC on Monday, the South West accounted for over 61 per cent of the 1,379,342 online voter pre-registration applications received between August 18 and 24, 2025, while the South East trailed with just 64,696 applications, the lowest nationwide.

In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the deputy speaker stressed that participation in the CVR exercise is vital for the South East to have a stronger voice in future elections.

“Poor registration numbers could affect the region’s ability to influence national outcomes,” Kalu warned. “If we want development, we must first show readiness to be part of the decision-making mechanism. That begins with preparing to vote and be voted for.”

Kalu urged residents of the South East to visit registration centres in their communities and register en masse, irrespective of party affiliation.

He maintained that greater voter participation would not only help the region elect credible leaders but also strengthen its bargaining power in the country’s political landscape.

“This is an opportunity for Ndigbo to demonstrate our collective strength through the number of registered voters,” he said. “Democracy delivers dividends only through participation, and development belongs to everyone. Let us seize this moment.”