GO MERD campaign targets PVC registration surge
The Obidients Movement has launched a major voter awareness campaign in Abia State, aiming to mobilise 4 million residents to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At a press conference in Umuahia on Monday, Comrade Chukwuebuka Ezenna, a key organiser, said the initiative is part of the national campaign GO MERD – Get Organised and Make Election Rigging Difficult, which seeks to boost democratic participation.
“We urge all Abians aged 18 and above to register, collect their PVCs, and treat them as keys to a better Nigeria,” Ezenna said.
From 2.1 million to 4 million voters
According to INEC data, Abia had just over 2.1 million registered voters in 2023, with more than 90% collecting their PVCs. With population growth and targeted mobilisation, the group believes doubling that number by 2027 is possible.
The movement described the PVC as the most powerful tool in a democracy, calling it “the voice of the voiceless and the shield of the weak.”
Reject vote-buying, demand credibility
The Obidients warned voters against accepting cash or gifts during elections, arguing that vote-selling only leads to more suffering and poor leadership.
“Selling your vote is selling your community’s future,” the group said, encouraging citizens to defend their right to choose credible leaders.
Support from traditional, religious, and civic groups
The group also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to support INEC by helping raise awareness and push for mass voter registration in every corner of the state.
Quoting 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, they said:
“A new Nigeria is possible, but the first step is active participation through voter registration.”
Youth participation is key
With a direct appeal to Nigerian youths, the Obidients stressed that 2027 is a chance to reset Nigeria, but only if the younger generation shows up—united and organised.
“Now is the time for Nigerian youths to rise above divisions. Let’s make 2027 count by making sure we all have our PVCs,” the group urged.
