INEC postpones nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the postponement of its proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 General Election, following growing public criticism over the timing of the initiative.

The decision was reached on Friday, April 10, 2026, during a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), where key electoral preparations and policy directions were reviewed.

In a statement signed by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC said the exercise would now be deferred until after the general election cycle.

The Commission had earlier proposed the revalidation exercise as part of efforts to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters. According to INEC, the process is designed to verify existing voter records, correct inaccuracies in personal data, remove duplicate or ineligible entries, and strengthen the integrity of the voter database.

It also aims to give registered voters the opportunity to confirm and update their information where necessary.

However, the planned exercise sparked sustained backlash from Nigerians, civil society groups, and political stakeholders, many of whom questioned the rationale behind undertaking such a nationwide process less than a year to a general election.

Critics warned that the move could create confusion among voters, suppress participation, or disrupt ongoing electoral preparations.

Responding to the concerns, INEC said its decision to postpone the exercise reflects its commitment to ensuring stability and public confidence in the electoral process.

“INEC remains committed to the conduct of free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections,” the statement added.