PVC collection: Ikpeazu declares holidays
From Boniface Okoro, Umuahia
Abia State government has declared a two-day public holidays to enable Abians and residents of voting age to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) before the January 29, 2023 deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC had served notice that it would close collection of PVCs by new registrants on Sunday, January 29, 2023, being the last extension by the electoral empire for the PVCs collection. Possession of the PVC entitles the electorate to vote during elections.
In view of the impending deadline, Abia State governor, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, approved a two-day public holidays for Monday, 23rd and Tuesday, 24th January 2023, as public holidays in the State, with a directive that public offices and markets should be closed for the two days.
According to the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Chris Ezem, who made public the declaration of the public holidays through a statement on Saturday, January 21, 2023, the holidays was “to enable Abians and residents to collect their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), ahead of the forthcoming general elections.”
“Consequently, all public offices and markets are to be closed as all are enjoined to use this opportunity to visit the INEC offices or collection centres where they registered to collect their PVCs ahead of the 29th January 2023 deadline by INEC for closure of PVC collection,” the statement added.
Warning market leaders against violating government’s directive, Ezem further stated: “The Executives of the various markets in the State are directed to ensure strict compliance on the closure of their various markets or be prepared to face appropriate sanctions.”
However, banks and those on essential duties are not affected by this directive, according to the SSG.
