INEC Suspends Voter Revalidation Preparations Nationwide

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to halt ongoing publicity and preparations for the planned voter revalidation exercise.

The decision comes days after the commission announced that the nationwide exercise would begin on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general election.

In an earlier communication signed by INEC Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, RECs had been instructed to begin logistical arrangements. These included mobilising personnel and preparing INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVEDs), alongside a detailed rollout timeline.

According to that schedule, the exercise was to start at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, move to registration areas between May 5 and May 11, and conclude at polling units from May 13 to May 19.

However, in a fresh notice, the commission ordered that all such activities be suspended pending further directives.

INEC also announced a change to its planned meeting with RECs. The session, originally scheduled to be held physically on April 9, will now take place virtually.

Commissioners have been asked to remain in their respective states and await further details for the online meeting.

The electoral body expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the sudden changes and assured RECs that updates would be communicated in due course.