APC Denies PDP Claims on PVC and Data Collection in Gombe

The Gombe State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has dismissed claims by the Peoples Democratic Party. The PDP alleged that the APC-led government of Governor Inuwa Yahaya is collecting Permanent Voter Cards, bank account details, and biometric data from citizens under an empowerment program.

In a statement on Thursday, Murtala-Usman Tale, the Gombe State Publicity Secretary for the APC, called the allegations “baseless, unfounded and politically motivated.” The party said the claim was meant to “create unnecessary fear, suspicion and distrust” around government empowerment programs that aim to improve the lives of residents.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Permanent Voter Card is issued and administered by the Independent National Electoral Commission, the statutory body responsible for the registration of voters and the conduct of elections in Nigeria,” the statement noted.

The APC emphasized that it is neither responsible for issuing PVCs nor for keeping them.

The party urged the PDP and the public to tell the difference between real government programs and political activities. It argued that requests for people's information to join empowerment or social aid programs should not be seen as electoral tricks.

The APC challenged the PDP to provide proof to the right authorities if it has evidence that any government agency, official, or individual is illegally collecting, keeping, or misusing citizens’ personal information or PVCs.

“If the Gombe State PDP has credible evidence that any government agency, official or individual is unlawfully collecting, retaining or misusing citizens’ personal information or PVCs, it should present such evidence to the right authorities for investigation rather than relying on unsubstantiated allegations,” the statement added.

The ruling party also accused the PDP of using political talk instead of offering what it called constructive alternatives and policy solutions to the people.

The APC insisted that the people of Gombe State can tell the difference between genuine concerns for their welfare and what it termed “politically motivated narratives” that aim to undermine real government programs.

It maintained that Governor Yahaya’s administration stays focused on governance that benefits the people, developing infrastructure, empowering the economy, and improving the living standards of residents.

“No amount of political talk, misinformation, or unfounded allegations will distract the administration from its duties and commitment to the people of the state,” the party said.

The APC urged the PDP to stop spreading what it called unsubstantiated claims and allow citizens to join legitimate government programs freely.

The party added, “Politics should focus on issues, ideas, policies, and programs that improve the lives of the people. Gombe State belongs to all of us, and the welfare, peace, and development of its people should always come before party interests.