By Amah
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As Nigeria gears up for the next electoral cycle, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has intensified its Permanent Voter Card, PVC, registration exercise, urging citizens across the country to obtain their PVCs and ensure their details are up to date.
A PVC is more than a card; it is the key to participating in Nigeria’s democracy, giving every eligible voter the power to decide who represents them at local, state, and national levels.
In Okigwe Zone, where political representation has often been criticised for being symbolic rather than service-driven, the exercise has taken on renewed significance. Political leaders like Attorney Dr. Charles Onyirimba, who recently joined the African Democratic Congress, ADC, are not only calling for civic participation but actively mobilising residents to collect their PVCs, emphasising that empowered citizens are the foundation of accountable leadership.
We spoke with Mrs. Ifeaoma Eze, an Okigwe resident, who has been closely following Onyirimba’s initiative to get her perspective on the importance of PVCs and the impact of his engagement on the community.
We’ve seen Attorney Dr. Charles Onyirimba recently join the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and start mobilising residents to collect their PVCs. As a resident of Okigwe, what are your thoughts?
Honestly, I’m impressed. It’s not every day you see a politician take concrete steps to involve ordinary people in the political process, almost like an activist. Most times, they just campaign and disappear until elections. Onyirimba’s move to ADC shows his kind of person and how serious he is about service and competence, not just holding office.
Why do you think joining a smaller party like ADC is significant?
For a long time, the major parties in our zone have dumped leaders who are more focused on political titles than development on us. ADC is smaller, but that’s the point. Onyirimba now has the freedom to focus on policies, grassroots work, and community development without being restricted by party politics. It sends a message that Okigwe deserves leaders who deliver results, not just promises.
And what about his PVC mobilisation drive?
That’s actually the part I’m most excited about. Too many people here still don’t have their PVCs, or they think voting doesn’t matter because of apathy developed from past disappointments. Onyirimba is showing that real change starts with active citizens. By encouraging everyone to collect and use their PVCs, he’s reminding us that our vote is our voice, and if we don’t use it, nothing will change.
How does this make you feel about participating in elections?
I feel motivated. For the first time in a long time, I feel like my vote actually counts and that leaders are aware we’re watching. Onyirimba’s example encourages me and my neighbours to be engaged, informed, and proactive. It’s inspiring to see someone not just talk about change but actually involve people in making it happen.
Beyond mobilising people to obtain their PVCs and participate in the ADC membership drive, many constituents in Okigwe are intensifying efforts to persuade Dr. Onyirimba to contest the Senate seat next year. What is the thinking behind this push, and why do you believe he should consider it?
Yes, the mobilisation for PVCs and party registration is important, but the conversations go beyond that. Many of us believe that political participation must ultimately translate into credible representation, and Dr. Onyirimba stands out in that regard.
For years, Okigwe has struggled with visibility, influence, and effective advocacy at the national level. People see in him the capacity, exposure, and clarity of thought needed to change that narrative. He understands national politics, yet he remains deeply connected to local realities. That combination is rare.
Our efforts are not about pressure or entitlement; they are about persuasion rooted in hope. We believe Okigwe needs a voice that can move the zone from darkness to the limelight, and many constituents feel he is well-positioned to do so. Ultimately, the decision is his, but we think it is important he listens to the yearnings of the people and seriously weighs the responsibility that comes with their confidence.
What would you like to say to other Okigwe residents?
Go and get your PVC! Don’t wait for someone to drag you to the polling station. Take charge of your future. We need leaders who are serious about our community, but we also need to play our part as citizens. Onyirimba is showing the way; but it’s up to all of us to follow through.
