Oyintiloye urges INEC to simplify PVC collection ahead of Osun poll

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt a more efficient and voter-friendly process for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye said the current collection process has subjected many eligible voters to unnecessary hardship, stressing that a simplified system would enable more citizens to exercise their constitutional rights during the election.

The former lawmaker, however, urged the electorate not to be discouraged by the cumbersome process, encouraging those yet to collect their PVCs to do so and turn out en masse to vote peacefully for the candidates of their choice.

He also urged voters not to give in to fear over reports of intimidation, saying, “No individual or group should be allowed to undermine the democratic process through acts capable of causing panic or discouraging lawful participation in the election”.

Oyintiloye further called on security agencies “to remain vigilant and professional in safeguarding lives and property before, during and after the poll”.

He urged them to ensure that anyone engaging in violence, intimidation or any act capable of disrupting the electoral process is brought to justice.

On the APC’s prospects in the poll, Oyintiloye expressed optimism that the party’s governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would emerge victorious, citing his widespread acceptance and support across the state.

He maintained that the APC’s journey back to government had begun, expressing confidence that voters would democratically elect Oyebamiji as the next governor.