Kehinde Fajobi
Senator Olamilekan Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt alternative identification methods to prevent voter disenfranchisement during elections.
Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, highlighted the use of National Identity Numbers (NINs) and driver’s licences during the Ogun State local government election as an example of a more inclusive approach to voter verification.
After casting his vote at the U.A.M.C. Polling Unit in Pahayi, Ilaro, the Ogun West lawmaker said, “I strongly believe that mitigating voter disenfranchisement by accepting other means of identification is a step in the right direction. Using passports or NIN cards alongside the PVC can ensure no eligible voter is left out.”
However, he acknowledged that such measures would require amendments to the existing electoral laws.
“What is recognised by law today is the PVC. To include other identification methods, the Electoral Act must be amended. The process must be thorough, legal, and transparent to gain public trust,” he added.
Adeola praised the peaceful conduct of the election in Ogun State and commended the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) for organising a smooth process.
He said, “It’s a very peaceful election across my senatorial district and the state. I’m impressed with the turnout and the ease of the process. OGSIEC has done a commendable job.”
Civil society organisations like Yiaga Africa have also championed similar proposals, advocating for the use of national ID cards, passports, and driver’s licences to enhance voter verification and inclusion.