Concerned registered voters in Delta North Senatorial District have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to investigate an alleged requirement for residents to submit their Voter Identification Numbers (VINs before receiving a N50,000 cash transfer described as an empowerment programme.
The group, in a statement dated September 17, 2026 and signed by its leader, Peter Nwadialor, alleged that the exercise was being carried out in parts of Delta North through structures associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The affected areas, according to the statement, include Oshimili North, Oshimili South, Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani Local Government Areas.
The group alleged that residents were informed about the N50,000 cash empowerment but were required to provide their VINs before being shortlisted for payment.
It claimed that the VINs were collected and verified before the beneficiaries received the money, describing the alleged process as “VIN before money.”
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The group raised concerns about the collection and storage of voters’ information by political actors, and urged relevant authorities to establish whether the exercise complies with electoral laws and regulations.
It specifically called on INEC, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the allegations and determine how the voter information collected in connection with the exercise was being handled.
The group also cited provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 concerning voters’ cards and the voters’ register.
Under Section 21 of the Electoral Act 2022, proprietary rights in voters’ cards issued to voters vest in INEC, while Section 22 criminalises unlawful possession, sale or purchase of voters’ cards, with penalties of up to N500,000 or two years’ imprisonment, or both, upon conviction.
However, the specific allegations that submitting a VIN in exchange for an empowerment payment constitutes an offence under Section 22 would require determination by the appropriate authorities, as the provision expressly addresses voters’ cards rather than VINs alone.
INEC guidance also states that the Permanent Voter’s Card is not transferable and should be kept safely by the voter.
The concerned voters urged INEC to clarify publicly whether the submission of VINs can lawfully be made a condition for receiving political or other empowerment payments.
They further called for an investigation into any registers or databases containing VINs allegedly collected during the exercise and urged authorities to take appropriate action if any unlawful conduct is established.
The group also requested greater voter education to ensure that citizens understand their rights and responsibilities concerning their voter information and electoral documents.
