The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country to suspend all publicity and logistical arrangements for the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise.
The commission had earlier announced that the exercise would commence on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a notice issued by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC instructed RECs to immediately put on hold all preparatory activities pending further directives from the commission.
Prior to the suspension, the commission had outlined a phased timetable for the exercise, beginning at the local government area (LGA) level from April 13 to May 2, followed by the registration area (RA) level from May 5 to May 11, and concluding at polling units (PUs) from May 13 to May 19.
RECs had also been directed to commence preliminary arrangements, including mobilisation of personnel and preparation of INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVEDs), in readiness for the exercise.
However, in a sudden shift, the commission announced that its scheduled physical meeting with RECs on Thursday, April 9, would now be conducted virtually.
“Further to the notice of meeting dated April 3, 2026, please be informed that the meeting of the commission with Resident Electoral Commissioners scheduled for Thursday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m. will now hold virtually via Zoom,” the notice stated.
INEC advised RECs to remain in their respective states and await further communication, including login details for the virtual meeting.
“Consequently, RECs are advised to remain in their states and await the login details which will be shared once the meeting is set up,” the commission added.
It further directed that all ongoing publicity and field preparations for the voter revalidation exercise be stepped down until further notice.
“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 said.
While expressing regret over any inconvenience caused by the abrupt changes, INEC assured commissioners that the decision was taken in consideration of prevailing circumstances, with further updates to be communicated in due course.
