Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cautioned residents against sharing images or personal details from their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) with political groups or unauthorised individuals.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s Directorate of Communication and signed by its spokesperson, Oluwasegun Adekayero.
According to Adekayero, the party raised the alarm following the circulation of a message allegedly urging Lagos residents—particularly those on the mainland—to submit clear photographs of their PVCs via WhatsApp for political mobilisation.
Describing the development as alarming, he warned that such requests pose serious threats to voter privacy and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
“In the interest of public safety and democratic integrity, we find it necessary to caution Lagosians against sharing sensitive personal information with partisan groups,” Adekayero stated.
He emphasised that the Permanent Voter Card, issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is a confidential electoral document that must be handled with utmost care.
“The PVC contains sensitive personal data which must be protected at all times. Indiscriminate collection of PVC images through informal channels raises serious concerns about data privacy, voter protection and the possible misuse of citizens’ information,” he added.
The ADC spokesperson further noted that political mobilisation should be conducted in a lawful and transparent manner that respects citizens’ rights.
“Political participation should inspire trust and confidence, not fear, coercion or undue pressure,” he said.
Residents were advised to safeguard their PVCs and refrain from transmitting copies through unsecured digital platforms. The party also urged members of the public to report suspicious requests for voter information to the appropriate authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to credible democratic engagement, the ADC stated that it remains focused on issue-based politics, civic education and lawful grassroots mobilisation rather than the collection of private voter data.
“Democracy thrives when citizens are informed, protected and respected,” Adekayero concluded.
Comments