The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Oyo State, Prof. Rahmon Tella, has assured residents of inclusive participation in the electoral process, reaffirming the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) commitment to removing barriers that prevent eligible citizens from voting.
Prof. Tella gave the assurance during a voter education and enlightenment programme held at Atiba University, Oyo, to mark the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
He disclosed that INEC has commenced the rotation of its Integrated Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) machines across all 351 registration areas in the state over a 50-day period, from February 9 to April 10, 2026.
According to him, the CVR is open to individuals who have never registered, those seeking to transfer their voting location, and persons whose Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are damaged or defaced.
The REC, however, expressed concern over the high number of uncollected PVCs in the state, describing each unclaimed card as a “silent voice” and a missed opportunity to shape the future.
In his remarks, the Founder of Atiba University, Dr. James Adesokan Ojebode, described it as an honour to host Prof. Tella, whom he noted is an indigene of Oyo. He urged traditional rulers, community leaders and group representatives present at the event to cascade the voter education message within their domains to boost participation in future elections.
Earlier, Prof. Tella paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, where he received royal backing for the ongoing CVR exercise. Dignitaries at the programme included traditional rulers, group heads and other community stakeholders.
