Tinubu Apologies Over PVC Misleading Claim

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has apologised for a misleading claim he made concerning the Permanent Voter Cards (PVC).

PUNCH reports that, while addressing some of his supporters in Abuja, Tinubu had earlier encouraged them to register ahead of the 2023 elections because their PVCs had expired.

He said, “In case they do not announce to you on time, the PVC you have has expired. Take one family member, two family members, knock on all doors and make sure that the new registration. Because they may not announce to you on time.”

“You need to spread it to various local governments and wards at each level. No matter how difficult it is. To me, I look at it closely and you look at other elections being held, you will see that it’s diminishing because those cards expired. You must go and register to vote and achieve your aspirations. May God bless you and bless Nigeria.”

These claims were countered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which said the information was wrong. According to the INEC, PVCs does not come with an expiry date.

In response to the backlash followed by the misleading information, Tinubu’s media team had issued a statement saying he mistakenly used the word ‘expire’ instead of stating that PVCs may have to be updated.

The statement read; “On Tuesday night in Abuja, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu granted audience to a delegation of women from Lagos and across the country attending the All Progressives Congress Women Conference. While charging the women to check the status of their voting cards and mobilise supporters to vote, he mistakenly used the word ‘expire’ instead of stating that the cards may have to be updated.

“Immediately, Asiwaju apologised for the incorrect statement and felt sorry for any confusion it may have caused. Asiwaju Tinubu also stressed that he appreciates the patriotic and necessary work of INEC and its personnel in assuring a free and fair electoral process for all Nigerians in all political parties.”