A resident in the Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State has accused Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) representatives of soliciting bribes to release Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). A video clip shared online captures a local account alleging that staff members asked for N2,000 to process the issuance of the cards.
The individual recording the footage identified one of the staff members as Mrs. Otito. According to the report, a conflict started when an applicant challenged the demand, noting that electoral services should be provided without cost. During the resulting scuffle, the resident claimed that Mrs. Otito turned physically aggressive and allegedly bit a young woman who was attempting to mediate the dispute.
While the recording captures shouting in the Igbo language, INEC has long stated that all voter registration and card distribution activities are completely free of charge. The commission has encouraged the public to report any instances of staff misconduct or financial extortion. As of now, INEC has yet to provide an official response regarding the incident in Onitsha South.
