The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to halt publicity and preparations for the planned voter revalidation exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Earlier, the commission had announced that the nationwide exercise would begin on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register. Preparations had already been set in motion, including mobilising personnel and readying voter enrolment devices.
According to a letter signed by INEC Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, the commission has now instructed RECs to suspend all related activities and await further directives.
“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 stated.
The commission also announced a change in its scheduled meeting with RECs. The meeting, initially planned to hold physically on Thursday, April 9, will now take place virtually via Zoom.
RECs have been advised to remain in their respective states and wait for login details for the virtual session.
Before the suspension, INEC had outlined a phased timeline for the exercise, beginning at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, followed by the registration area level from May 5 to May 11, and concluding at polling units from May 13 to May 19.
The reason for the sudden pause was not disclosed, leaving stakeholders awaiting further clarification from the electoral body.
