The distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Okuku, Osun State, was thrown into chaos on Sunday after suspected hoodlums invaded a ward collation centre and made away with several packs of voter cards.
The incident occurred at Oyinlola DC School, Ward 2, where officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were attending to residents who had come to collect their PVCs ahead of the election.
According to eyewitnesses, the armed men reportedly stormed the centre unnoticed before firing gunshots into the air, causing panic among INEC officials and members of the public. The sudden attack forced people at the venue to flee for safety as the assailants headed straight for the area where the PVCs had been kept.
A resident identified simply as Gbadebo said the attackers, believed to be about eight in number, successfully carted away several packs of Permanent Voter Cards before escaping the scene. He explained that many people waiting to collect their cards were caught off guard and had no choice but to run in different directions when the gunshots rang out.
The incident brought the PVC distribution exercise to an abrupt halt, raising fresh concerns over the security of electoral materials and the safety of voters ahead of the polls.
Reacting to the development, the Osun State Police Command confirmed the attack and strongly condemned the actions of the perpetrators. The Command's spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
According to the police, security agencies have been directed to identify, arrest, and prosecute everyone involved in the attack, while efforts are underway to recover the stolen PVCs and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The command also reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding the electoral process and maintaining peace across the state.
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