By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Independent National Electoral Commission has postponed the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general election.
The decision was taken on Friday, 10 April, 2026 during a meeting between the commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners, where key electoral matters were reviewed, prompting a shift in the timeline for the exercise earlier scheduled to commence on Monday, 13 April,2026.
In a statement, the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the commission reached the decision after extensive deliberations.
“Following deliberations, the commission resolved to postpone the exercise until after the 2027 general election,” he stated.
INEC explained that the voter revalidation exercise remains a critical component of its mandate to maintain an accurate and credible National Register of Voters.
Specifically, the exercise is designed to verify existing voter records, correct personal data, remove duplicate or ineligible entries, and strengthen the integrity of the voter database.
Furthermore, the commission noted that the process would provide an opportunity for registered voters to confirm and update their details where necessary.
Despite the postponement, INEC reaffirmed its commitment to credible electoral processes, stating that it “remains committed to the conduct of free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections.”
In a letter dated April 4, the commission directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners to suspend ongoing publicity and arrangements for the exercise.
The directive, signed by the Secretary to the commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, instructed RECs to halt all related activities pending 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 read.
However, the commission advised that preliminary preparations should continue, including the sourcing of personnel and the readiness of INEC Voter Enrolment Devices, in anticipation of a future date.
INEC also expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the postponement, assuring stakeholders of its consideration and continued engagement.
The development marks a significant adjustment to the commission’s electoral timetable, as it balances preparatory activities with the broader goal of ensuring a credible and seamless 2027 general election.
