Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Bornet .k
The Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for an immediate investigation into an alleged illegal voter registration exercise reportedly taking place at the Dan Archibong Lodge, Government House, Calabar, accusing individuals linked to the state government of attempting to undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
The opposition party made the allegation in a statement issued on Thursday, July 23, 2026, and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Prince Mike Ojisi. The PDP described the reported activity as a serious threat to electoral credibility and urged relevant authorities to investigate the claim and take appropriate action.
According to the party, the alleged voter registration exercise was being conducted by persons it claimed were acting on behalf of the Cross River State Government. The PDP did not provide specific evidence publicly to support the allegation but insisted that any unauthorised voter registration activity must be thoroughly investigated to protect public confidence in future elections.
The party called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to examine the matter, identify those responsible if wrongdoing is established, and prosecute anyone found to have violated electoral laws.
The PDP warned that illegal voter registration activities could affect the credibility of future elections if left unchecked, stressing that the electoral register remains one of the most important foundations of a democratic system.
The opposition party appealed to residents of Cross River State to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant while encouraging citizens to report any suspected electoral irregularities through appropriate channels.
However, the allegation has been denied by the Cross River State Government. Fred Abua, Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, dismissed the claim, saying he was not aware of any such activity taking place at the Government House.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Nothing of such is taking place,” Abua said in response to inquiries about the allegation.
Efforts to obtain a reaction from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. Several calls and messages sent to the APC State Chairman, Chris Eta, were reportedly not answered.
The controversy comes as political parties across Nigeria continue preparations ahead of future electoral contests, with voter registration and management of the electoral roll remaining sensitive issues frequently debated by political stakeholders.
Electoral authorities have repeatedly warned against attempts to manipulate voter registration processes, stressing that only activities authorised by INEC and conducted through approved channels are recognised under Nigerian electoral laws.
The PDP’s demand for investigation places attention on INEC and security agencies, which are expected to determine whether any violation occurred and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the allegation.
As of Thursday evening, no official statement had been issued by INEC, the police or the DSS regarding the PDP’s complaint.
The outcome of any investigation could determine whether the allegation was based on verified evidence or whether it was part of the wider political disagreements often witnessed between opposition parties and ruling governments ahead of elections.
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