Fresh controversy has erupted ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Accord Party have accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of allegedly plotting to obtain and deploy thousands of unclaimed Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to manipulate the electoral process.
The opposition parties claimed that the alleged scheme forms part of a broader strategy to influence the outcome of the governorship election, warning that any attempt to tamper with the integrity of the poll could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system.
The allegations come amid growing political tension in Osun State, where parties have continued to trade accusations over voter manipulation, political intimidation and alleged plans to compromise the electoral process. Political stakeholders have repeatedly raised concerns over the large number of uncollected PVCs in the state. According to figures previously released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), more than 360,000 PVCs remain unclaimed in Osun ahead of the election.
Leaders of the PDP and Accord Party alleged that desperate politicians were targeting the unclaimed voter cards as part of a coordinated effort to gain an unfair advantage at the polls. They called on INEC, security agencies and election observers to intensify surveillance around voter registers and PVC collection centres to prevent any abuse of the electoral system.
The parties further urged residents to remain vigilant and protect their democratic rights, insisting that the will of the electorate must not be subverted through what they described as clandestine political manoeuvres.
The latest accusation adds to a series of claims and counterclaims that have characterised preparations for the Osun governorship contest. In recent months, political parties in the state have exchanged allegations of voter importation, electoral fraud, violence and campaign sabotage, further heightening concerns over the conduct of the election.
While the APC had not officially responded to the latest allegations at press time, the party has consistently denied similar accusations in the past, describing them as attempts by political opponents to distract voters from substantive campaign issues.
Observers say the accusations underscore the high stakes surrounding the governorship election, with political actors increasingly resorting to public allegations as the battle for Osun Government House intensifies.
With the election drawing closer, pressure is mounting on INEC and security agencies to guarantee a transparent, credible and violence-free poll capable of reflecting the genuine choice of the people.