The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to eligible voters in Osun State ahead of the 2026 governorship election, urging residents to collect their cards within the stipulated period.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, announced the exercise in a statement issued on Sunday, saying the PVCs are ready for collection by those who registered, applied for transfer of registration, requested replacement of lost or damaged cards, or updated their records during the recently concluded Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

According to her, the distribution will begin at the Registration Area (RA) level across the state before moving to INEC Local Government Area offices.

Babalola said PVC collection at the 332 Registration Areas across Osun State will hold from Wednesday, July 22, to Tuesday, July 28, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily, including weekends.

She added that voters who are unable to collect their cards during the first phase can do so at their respective INEC Local Government offices from Wednesday, July 29, to Friday, August 7, 2026, also between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., weekends inclusive.

The REC disclosed that uncollected PVCs from previous registration exercises would also be available for collection throughout the distribution period.

She reminded voters that the Permanent Voter Card remains the only valid means of accreditation for voting on election day and urged all eligible voters to take advantage of the exercise.

Babalola also stressed that PVC collection must be done in person, warning that collection by proxy is prohibited.

“PVC collection is strictly personal, and it is an offence to do otherwise. Collection by proxy will not be allowed under any circumstance,” she said.

Reaffirming the commission’s commitment to a credible electoral process, the REC said INEC remains focused on conducting a free, fair, transparent and inclusive governorship election in Osun State.

She advised members of the public seeking further information to visit the nearest INEC Local Government Office or contact the Osun State INEC Office through its official communication channels.