The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has extended the collection of Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs to September 15 in Edo, preparatory to the state’s governorship election on September 21.

INEC National Commissioner, Sam Olumekun announced this in Benin, noting that the extension would begin on September 13.

Olumekun said stakeholders unanimously appealed to the commission to consider an extension of the period for the collection of PVCs to enable more voters to collect their cards.

“The commission held an interactive meeting with stakeholders in Benin ahead of the governorship election.

“The meeting was attended by chairmen of political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and the media.

“The commission’s chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun addressed the stakeholders and responded to their electoral and security concerns.

”Given that, a three-day extension has been granted from Friday, Sept. 13 to Sunday, September 15.

“The cards will be available for collection in our 18 local government offices across the state from 9 am to 5 pm daily”, he said.