The Independent National Electoral Commission has ordered all Resident Electoral Commissioners to halt preparations and publicity for the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise.
INEC had originally announced that the exercise would start on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections. A letter from the commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, had instructed RECs to begin preparations, including mobilizing personnel and getting INEC Voter Enrolment Devices ready.
The planned schedule showed the exercise would run in phases starting at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, then at the Registration Area level from May 5 to May 11, and finally at polling units from May 13 to May 19.
INEC also changed the format of its scheduled meeting with RECs. A notice explained that the meeting set for April 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., will now take place virtually on Zoom. RECs were asked to stay in their states and wait for login details.
In a follow-up directive, the commission instructed all RECs to immediately stop all publicity and logistical work related to the voter revalidation exercise and await further instructions.
The commission apologized for any inconvenience the changes may cause and reassured stakeholders of its commitment to a smooth and credible electoral process.
