Abia State Government Warns Against Fraudulent Activities Targeting Voters
Abia State Government has issued a strong warning against a growing concern involving the misuse of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) by certain politicians and their agents. The government claims that these individuals are targeting rural communities with deceptive tactics to collect sensitive voter information, which could jeopardize the integrity of the 2027 election.
Ferdinand Ekeoma, the special adviser on media and publicity to Governor Alex Otti, raised this issue in a press release dated Monday, 7 July. According to Ekeoma, some politicians have deployed agents to various wards in the state to fraudulently obtain details from residents’ PVCs. These agents are offering N10,000 to each individual under the pretense of creating a non-existent e-wallet for empowerment purposes.
The Hidden Motive Behind the Scheme
The government has expressed serious concerns about the intent behind these activities. It claims that the sponsors and perpetrators of this act aim to compromise the authenticity of PVCs and ultimately render the owners ineligible to vote during the upcoming 2027 election. This kind of interference poses a significant threat to the democratic process and the rights of eligible voters.
In its official statement, the Abia State Government emphasized that it is committed to empowering its citizens through various programs. These include the Abia State Interest Free Loan Empowerment Scheme, which benefits over 10,000 residents, and the Abia Techrise Project. Additionally, the government has supported training programs for youths in agricultural skills and provided funding for such initiatives without any political influence or questionable conditions.
A Call for Vigilance
The government has also urged all residents, particularly those in rural areas, to be cautious when approached by individuals or groups seeking personal information. It strongly advises against sharing details from their PVCs or any other data that could potentially disenfranchise them or put them in danger.
The government views these actions as a deliberate criminal act and has made it clear that anyone involved, whether directly or through agents, will face severe consequences. This includes individuals who may hold high positions within the state.
Government’s Commitment to Fair Elections
Despite these challenges, the government remains focused on ensuring that the electoral process is fair and transparent. It continues to implement initiatives aimed at uplifting the community without politicizing its efforts. The emphasis is on providing genuine support to the people, including the youth and the elderly, while safeguarding their rights and freedoms.
This incident highlights the need for increased awareness among voters about the importance of protecting their personal information. It also underscores the role of the government in maintaining the integrity of the electoral system and preventing any form of manipulation or fraud.
As the 2027 election approaches, the government is determined to take all necessary measures to ensure that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote without fear or interference. The message is clear: any attempt to undermine the democratic process will not be tolerated.
