By Nworisa Michael
The Independent National Electoral Commission has directed its Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) nationwide to suspend all preparations and publicity for the proposed voter revalidation exercise.
The exercise, earlier scheduled to commence on April 13, 2026, was part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the commission has now put the process on hold pending further directives.
In a notice signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, RECs were instructed to halt all arrangements, including mobilisation of personnel and deployment of voter enrolment devices.
INEC also announced a change in its scheduled meeting with RECs. The meeting, initially planned to hold physically on April 9, will now take place virtually via Zoom. Commissioners have been advised to remain in their respective states and await further details regarding the online session.
Prior to the suspension, the commission had outlined a phased timeline for the revalidation exercise, beginning at the local government level before progressing to registration areas and polling units.
The electoral body stated that further updates would be communicated in due course, while expressing regret over any inconvenience caused by the sudden change.
