INEC postpones nationwide Voter Revalidation exercise until after 2027 polls

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the postponement of its planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise, shifting it to a date after the 2027 General Election.

The decision was reached at a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) held on Friday, where key electoral matters, including the proposed exercise, were reviewed.

In a statement issued by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Commission said the postponement followed deliberations on the timing and implications of the exercise.

“Following deliberations, the Commission resolved to postpone the exercise until after the 2027 General Election,” the statement said.

INEC described the voter revalidation exercise as a crucial aspect of its statutory responsibility to maintain an accurate and credible National Register of Voters.

According to the Commission, the exercise is designed to verify and update existing voter records, correct personal data where necessary, and remove duplicate or ineligible entries from the register.

“The voter revalidation exercise is a critical component of the Commission’s mandate to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters,” INEC stated.

It added that the process would also allow registered voters to confirm their details and make necessary corrections to ensure the integrity of the database.

“The exercise is designed to verify and review existing voter records, ensure the accuracy of personal data, eliminate duplicate and ineligible entries, and strengthen the overall integrity of the voter register,” the statement added.

Despite the postponement, INEC reaffirmed its commitment to credible electoral processes, assuring Nigerians that preparations for the 2027 polls remain on course.

“INEC remains committed to the conduct of free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections,” the Commission said.

The voter revalidation exercise, when eventually conducted, is expected to play a key role in strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.