INEC orders suspension of planned voter revalidation exercise

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed all resident electoral commissioners (RECs) to suspend publicity and preparations for the planned voter revalidation exercise.

Earlier this week, INEC had announced the commencement of a nationwide voter revalidation drive, scheduled to begin on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a letter signed by the commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, RECs were initially asked to make necessary preparations, including sourcing personnel and readying INEC voter enrolment devices (IVEDs).

The original plan outlined that the exercise would start at the local government area (LGA) level from April 13 to May 2, move to the registration area (RA) level from May 5 to May 11, and conclude at polling units (PUs) from May 13 to May 19.

Meanwhile, the commission announced that its previously scheduled physical meeting with RECs on Thursday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m. will now hold virtually via Zoom.

“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, 9th April 2026 at 11.00am will now hold virtually via Zoom,” the notice partly reads.

RECs were advised to remain in their states and await login details, which will be shared once arrangements for the virtual meeting are concluded.

“Consequently, RECs are advised to remain in their states and await the login details which will be shared once the meeting is set up,” INEC added.

The commission further instructed RECs to put all publicity and preparations for the voter revalidation exercise on hold until 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 for any inconvenience caused by the changes and assured commissioners of its careful consideration.