The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed disappointment over the extremely low turnout for the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in Enugu State, recording just 1,801 fresh registrations within 15 days of the exercise.
According to the Head of Voter Education and Publicity at INEC Enugu, Chief Rex Achumie, the figures represent a sharp contrast to the average of 25,000 registrations typically recorded in other states over the same period.
“The turnout so far is discouraging. It is troubling to see such a small number of new voters, just 1,801 across the entire state, despite smooth operations and no technical setbacks,” Achumie said.
The 15-day count covers registrations conducted between August 25 and September 12, exclusively at INEC’s CVR centres across Enugu State. Among the 1,801 newly registered voters, 896 are male and 905 are female.
INEC began the online phase of the CVR on August 18, with physical registration starting nationwide on August 28. In Enugu, the process has reportedly faced no technical or logistical issues.
“We’ve had no problems with network connectivity, staffing, or equipment. The process has been seamless,” Achumie noted.
“Unfortunately, people are not showing up. Residents are arriving at wide intervals — it’s a trickle.”
He urged community leaders, civil society groups, political parties, and other stakeholders to intensify voter sensitisation efforts, particularly targeting young people who just turned 18, and eligible voters who have never registered before.
Achumie stressed the importance of the CVR in ensuring inclusive and representative elections, especially as the country prepares for future electoral cycles.
“Registering to vote is not just for political party members, it’s a civic responsibility for every Nigerian of voting age. The voter’s card is your voice during elections.”
He emphasized that the low numbers could impact voter turnout and representation in upcoming polls if not urgently addressed.
The CVR exercise in Enugu runs Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 4pm, at the INEC State Headquarters in Enugu and all 17 Local Government Area INEC offices across the state.
INEC is urging all eligible residents who have not yet registered to take advantage of the ongoing opportunity to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of future elections.
