Ogun Lawmaker And Other Names Missing In Voters’ Register

A member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Femi Allen-Taylor, on Sunday fell victim to the problems trailing the ongoing distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards, PVC.

Mr. Allen-Taylor on Friday visited the Ago-Oba polling booth in Abeokuta South Local Government Area to receive his permanent voter cards only to discover that his name was missing.

He told journalists he had registered his complaint with the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The lawmaker, who is a member of the Matagbamole Group loyal to a former Ogun State Governor, Segun Osoba, however, expressed optimism that the problem will be addressed by the authorities concerned before the end of the exercise.

PREMIUM TIMES’ investigations showed that Mr. Allen-Taylor was only one of hundreds with the same issue.

The Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, picked his own card at the Ajura polling unit in Obafemi-Owode local government area, while the Mr. Osoba collected his at the Ago-Oba polling unit in Abeokuta South Local Government Area.

Mr. Amosun also expressed displeasure over the conduct of the exercise. He said despite the large turnout of prospective voters, the INEC’s performances were below expectation.

He said he had complained to INEC, adding that in view of the several complaints, the electoral body may resolve to extend the days for the exercise.

Mr. Amosun asked prospective voters not to be disturbed by the development, as the electoral commission would look into.

Mr. Osoba declined comment when approached by journalists.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ogun State, Sam Olumekun, while speaking with journalists admitted the lapses of the commission.

He said the commission would ensure that all lapses are well addressed in the interest of the election and electorates.

He said an extension of the period of the exercise would be determined by the national headquarters of the commission.

SOURCE: PREMIUM TIMES