INEC backtracks, asks RECs to suspend voter revalidation plans

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

Earlier, the commission had 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 elections.

In a letter signed by its secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC had instructed RECs to begin necessary preparations, including sourcing personnel and preparing INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVED).

The initial timeline indicated that the exercise would commence at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, move to the registration area level from May 5 to May 11, and then proceed to polling units from May 13 to May 19.

However, the commission has now ordered that all such plans be put on hold pending further directives.

INEC also announced a change in its scheduled meeting with RECs. The meeting, initially planned to hold physically on Thursday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m., will now be conducted 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 read.

The commission advised RECs to remain in their respective states and await 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,” INEC said.

It further directed that all publicity and arrangements related to the voter revalidation exercise be suspended.

“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 added.