The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a significant increase in both registered voters and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection in Ekiti State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the number of registered voters in the state rose from 987,647 in 2023 to 1,059,360 in 2026.

The commission also disclosed that PVC collection increased from 958,052 in 2023 to 1,028,929 in 2026, representing a collection rate of 97 per cent and covering 97.1 per cent of registered voters.

INEC said it had successfully concluded the PVC collection exercise, which was extended from June 11 to June 14 following consultations with stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti.

The commission further revealed that it received 14,406 applications for the replacement of lost, damaged or defaced PVCs. All replacement cards were printed, with the majority already collected by applicants.

INEC noted that the planned introduction of downloadable replacement voter cards could not be implemented for the Ekiti election because the required technological infrastructure is yet to be completed. However, the system is expected to be available for the Osun Governorship Election in August 2026 and the 2027 General Election.

The electoral body thanked traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, political parties and the media for supporting voter mobilisation efforts.

Reaffirming its commitment to a credible electoral process, INEC urged all eligible voters who have collected their PVCs to participate peacefully in the June 20 governorship election, assuring residents of a free, fair, inclusive and transparent poll.