Obanliku LGA Chairman Receives INEC Officials as Continuous Voter Registration Exercise Kicks Off

A group of men, including the Executive Chairman of Obanliku LGA, Hon. Chief (Dr) Sunny Ayang JP, engage in a discussion during a meeting with INEC officials at the Council Secretariat, amidst a backdrop of framed portraits and national flags.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

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In a significant step towards strengthening democratic participation in Cross River State, the Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Chief (Dr) Sunny Ayang JP, received officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday, 25th August 2025. The meeting, held at the Council Secretariat, officially marked the commencement of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise within the LGA.

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A Call for Civic Responsibility
During the reception, Chief Ayang commended INEC for its persistent efforts in deepening democratic engagement and fostering a culture of active citizenship across Nigeria. He assured the visiting officials of the Council’s unwavering support throughout the CVR period and emphasised the importance of voter registration as a fundamental civic duty.

“This is a civic responsibility that determines our future and the development of our communities,” Chief Ayang stated. “I urge all qualified citizens, especially the youths and first-time voters, to come out in their numbers to participate in this vital democratic process. Each registered voter contributes directly to shaping the leadership and governance of our local and national institutions.”

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The Chairman also highlighted the importance of updating voter information for residents who have experienced changes in their personal circumstances, including changes in polling units, lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), or relocation within the LGA.

INEC’s Commitment to Transparent Registration
INEC officials, in response, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated their commitment to conducting a seamless, transparent, and inclusive registration process. They assured that all designated registration centres across Obanliku LGA would operate according to INEC’s national guidelines, ensuring accessibility for all eligible voters, including first-time registrants and individuals requiring transfers or PVC replacements.

The officials provided detailed information on the CVR process, advising residents to present valid identification and follow the prescribed procedures at registration centres. They stressed that the exercise is open to Nigerian citizens aged 18 years and above who have not previously registered to vote.

Encouraging Maximum Participation
Akahi News gathered that the Executive Chairman’s appeal focused particularly on the youth population and first-time voters, recognising their critical role in shaping the future political landscape of Obanliku LGA and Nigeria at large. By encouraging proactive participation in voter registration, the Council aims to foster greater political awareness and ensure that every eligible citizen is empowered to exercise their voting rights in upcoming elections.

The CVR exercise in Obanliku LGA aligns with the broader national framework of INEC’s year-long registration initiative, scheduled to run until 30th August 2026. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to secure their participation in future democratic processes.

Access to Registration Centres
For convenience, INEC has set up multiple registration points across Obanliku LGA to accommodate residents efficiently. Both new applicants and those seeking to update their voter information are required to complete registration at the nearest centre. Residents can obtain further information about specific registration points and schedules by contacting either the INEC LGA office or the Council Secretariat.

John Ochon, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, confirmed that the Council will actively support INEC officials in logistical coordination, public sensitisation, and community engagement throughout the exercise. This collaborative approach is aimed at ensuring a smooth, credible, and inclusive voter registration process.

Akahi News learnt that the reception of INEC officials by Chief Ayang reflects a wider commitment by local governments in Cross River State to enhance civic participation, promote electoral transparency, and encourage citizens to take ownership of their democratic rights.

As the Continuous Voter Registration unfolds, residents of Obanliku LGA are urged to prioritise voter registration, update their details where necessary, and participate fully in shaping the governance of their communities. The exercise represents not only a legal obligation but also an opportunity to strengthen democratic governance at the grassroots level.