INEC directs RECs to suspend voter revalidation plans after outrage

Independent National Electoral Commission has directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to suspend publicity and preparations for the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise.

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The commission had earlier scheduled the exercise to begin on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In an earlier communication signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, RECs were instructed to begin preparations, including mobilising personnel and deploying INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVEDs).

The proposed timeline indicated the exercise would take place in phases, starting at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, moving to registration areas from May 5 to May 11, and concluding at polling units from May 13 to May 19.

However, in a follow-up directive, the commission ordered an immediate halt to all related activities. “RECs are also directed to step down all publicity and arrangements for the voter revalidation exercise and await further directives from the commission,” the notice stated.

INEC also announced a change to the format of its scheduled meeting with RECs, moving it from a physical gathering to a virtual session. “Further to the notice of meeting dated 3rd April 2026, please be informed that the meeting of the commission with Resident Electoral Commissioners scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. will now hold virtually via Zoom,” the statement read.

RECs were advised to remain in their respective states and await further instructions, including login details for the meeting. The commission apologised for any inconvenience caused by the sudden changes and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process.