INEC Warns Against Double Voter Registration

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Bayelsa State has announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will resume on August 18, 2025, with both online and physical registration options available for residents.

This was disclosed by the resident electoral commissioner (REC), Mallam Isah Shaka Ehimeakhe, while addressing journalists yesterday at the Prof. Mahmood Yakubu Media Centre, INEC headquarters in Yenagoa.

He said online pre-registration will start on August 18 via the official INEC portal, while physical registration will begin on August 25 at designated INEC offices across all local government areas of the state.

Ehimeakhe said the exercise is open to citizens who have turned 18 and those who have not previously registered. He urged eligible residents to register early to avoid last-minute rush, stressing that voter registration is “the first and most powerful step toward positive change.”

On double registration, the REC cautioned that registering more than once is a punishable offence under Section 114 (b) of the Electoral Act 2022. He warned that the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) will detect multiple registrations and offenders will face fines, imprisonment, or both.

“Once you have been issued a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) or previously completed the registration process, you do not need to register again. Attempting to do so is a crime,” he said.
He also warned against underage registration, describing it as illegal and unethical. He called on parents, guardians, traditional and religious leaders to discourage minors from attempting to register, noting that offenders will be prosecuted.

“Registering minors undermines the integrity of our electoral system and those who aid such acts will face legal consequences,” he said.

Ehimeakhe urged community leaders, political parties, civil society groups, and the media to mobilise citizens to participate, adding that INEC remains committed to a transparent, peaceful, and credible voter registration process.

“No eligible citizen will be denied the opportunity to register and vote. Together, we can deepen democracy by ensuring every voice counts,” he added.