As preparations for August 15 gubernatorial polls in Osun intensify, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Monday morning announced the commencement of the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to eligible voters ahead of the exercise.

A press statement by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, explained the exercise will provide opportunities for individuals who registered, transferred their voter registration, or applied for replacement of lost or damaged PVCs to get collect their cards.

Similarly, eligible voters, who updated their records during the recently concluded Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will also collect their PVCs.

According to the Commission, the PVC collection exercise will begin at the Registration Area (RA) level across the state from Wednesday, July 22, to Tuesday, July 28, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily, including weekends.

INEC further added that after the Registration Area distribution, the exercise will continue at its Local Government Area offices from Wednesday, July 29, to Friday, August 7, 2026, also between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily, including weekends.

While appealing to all eligible voters to collect their PVCs within the stipulated period, Babalola emphasised that PVC remains the only valid means of accreditation for participation in the governorship election

She also hinted that uncollected PVCs from previous voter registration exercises would also be distributed during the exercise, thereby giving eligible voters another opportunity to retrieve their cards.

Babalola, however, cautioned that PVC collection is strictly personal, declaring that collection by proxy is prohibited under the Electoral Act and would not be permitted under any circ

Reaffirming the umpire’s commitment to delivering a free, credible, inclusive and transparent polls, the REC advised members of the public who need additional information to visit the nearest Local Government Area office or contact the Osun State office through its official communication channels.