INEC postpones nationwide voter revalidation until after 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission has postponed the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 General Election.

The decision was reached on Friday during a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners, where key electoral matters were reviewed.

In a statement signed by INEC National Commissioner, Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, the Commission said, “Following deliberations, the Commission resolved to postpone the exercise until after the 2027 General Election.”

INEC explained that the voter revalidation exercise remains a crucial part of its mandate to maintain an accurate and credible National Register of Voters. It is intended to verify existing voter records, correct personal data, remove duplicate or ineligible entries, and enhance the integrity of the voter database.

The Commission added that the exercise would also allow registered voters to confirm and update their details where necessary.

Despite the postponement, INEC reaffirmed its commitment to credible elections, stating that it “remains committed to the conduct of free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections.”

The Punch reported that INEC, in a letter dated April 4, directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners to suspend publicity and arrangements for the voter revalidation exercise.

The letter, which was signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, asked all RECs to commence necessary preparations for the exercise, including the sourcing of personnel and preparation of INEC Voter Enrolment Devices.

The commission added that all publicity and preparations for the voter revalidation exercise should be put on hold pending further directives.

“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 expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the changes and assured the commissioners of its consideration.

Meanwhile, INEC had previously announced plans to commence a nationwide voter revalidation drive initially scheduled for April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general election.