By Oghenefejiro Emado
22, January 2026
The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has called on eligible residents of the state to take advantage of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
According to Aniagwu, voter registration and possession of a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) are both a constitutional right and a civic responsibility.
Speaking at a sensitisation and advocacy engagement organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in collaboration with the Delta State Government, Aniagwu stressed that voter registration is fundamental to democratic participation.
He noted that citizens who fail to vote effectively forfeit the moral right to complain about poor leadership and governance outcomes.
The Commissioner explained that the sensitisation exercise was aimed at reaching new registrants, particularly young Nigerians who were underage during the last general election, as well as those who were unable to register previously due to various challenges.
He emphasized that voting remains the most direct way of influencing governance and leadership selection at all levels.
Aniagwu lamented that many Nigerians still underestimate the importance of voter registration, often questioning the need to endure the stress of locating registration centres. He noted that such attitudes underscore the need for sustained public enlightenment to ensure citizens appreciate the value of being included in the voter register and actively participating in decision-making processes.
The Commissioner called for continuous engagement with INEC, referencing Section 10 of the Electoral Act, particularly subsections 1, 2, and 3, which mandate continuous voter registration.
He emphasized that voter registration should not be treated as an exercise carried out only in the build-up to elections.
Aniagwu expressed concern over logistical constraints, noting that the allocation of only two registration machines to each local government area was inadequate.
He urged INEC to increase the number of machines to improve accessibility and advocated for the deployment of technology to simplify the process.
The Commissioner argued that a technology-driven and community-based registration system would significantly reduce costs, logistical challenges, and voter apathy. He commended INEC for organising the sensitisation programme and expressed optimism that sustained advocacy and stakeholder support would lead to increased voter registration across Delta State.
Aniagwu reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to supporting initiatives that empower citizens, strengthen democratic participation, and ensure that more Nigerians are registered and ready to vote when elections are conducted.
