By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ordered all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to suspend publicity and preparations for the voter revalidation exercise, which was earlier scheduled to begin on April 13, 2026, across Nigeria, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC Suspends Voter Revalidation Preparations
INEC directed RECs to immediately halt all activities related to the exercise. This includes publicity, logistics, and personnel arrangements.
According to the commission, officials must wait for further instructions before resuming any work.
“RECs are also directed to step down all publicity and arrangements,” the notice stated.
Exercise Timeline Already Outlined
Despite the suspension, INEC had earlier released a detailed schedule.
- LGA level: April 13 to May 2
- Registration Area level: May 5 to May 11
- Polling Unit level: May 13 to May 19
These phases aim to ensure smooth voter data updates nationwide.
Meeting With RECs Moves Online
INEC also changed its meeting format. Initially, the meeting was planned as a physical gathering. However, it will now hold virtually.
The meeting is scheduled for April 9, 2026, at 11:00 am via Zoom.
As a result, RECs must remain in their respective states. INEC will share login details once arrangements are complete.
Commission Expresses Regret
INEC acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the sudden changes. However, it assured commissioners that the decision was necessary.
The commission emphasized its commitment to an efficient and credible voter register update process.
Background to the Exercise
Earlier, INEC had instructed RECs to begin preparations. These included sourcing personnel and preparing INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVED).
The revalidation exercise is part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of 2027.
