Abia Government Warns Against PVC Scam Targeting Rural Dwellers, Vows to Prosecute Political Agents

The Abia State Government has raised a red flag over an alleged scam by political actors and their agents, who are reportedly collecting Permanent Voter Card (PVC) details from unsuspecting rural residents under false pretences.

In a statement released on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, the government revealed that some politicians have deployed agents across wards in the state to fraudulently obtain PVC information in exchange for ₦10,000, falsely claiming it is part of an e-wallet-based empowerment programme.

“The attention of Abia State Government has been drawn to the activities of some politicians… who fraudulently obtain PVC details of unsuspecting rural dwellers under a deceptive guise of creating a non-existent e-wallet for empowerment,” the statement read.

Mr. Ekeoma described the act as a deliberate ploy to compromise the authenticity of voter data and ultimately disenfranchise citizens in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.

He emphasized that the Abia State Government remains committed to genuine, transparent empowerment, citing successful initiatives such as:

The Interest-Free Loan Empowerment Scheme, which has benefited over 10,000 residents The Abia TechRise Project Youth training and agricultural funding programmes currently running in Nasarawa State

He stressed that these government programmes are free of political strings or conditions that could compromise citizens’ rights.

Mr. Ekeoma described the ongoing fraudulent schemes as irresponsible and dangerous, warning that anyone found culpable — regardless of political status — would face severe legal consequences.

The government also urged Abians, especially those in rural areas, to refuse any requests for their PVC information or personal details, no matter the promise or incentive attached.

“We call on all citizens to remain vigilant. Do not be deceived by fraudulent empowerment claims. Report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities,” the statement concluded.