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

The commission had earlier announced that the exercise would commence 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 initially instructed RECs to begin necessary preparations, including mobilising personnel and readying INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVEDs).

The proposed timeline indicated that the exercise would start at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, move to the Registration Area (RA) level from May 5 to May 11, and conclude at polling units (Pus) from May 13 to May 19.

INEC also announced a change in the format of its scheduled meeting with RECs.

“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, April 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. 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.

In a follow-up directive, INEC instructed all RECs to immediately suspend all publicity and logistical arrangements related to the voter revalidation exercise.

“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 expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the sudden changes and assured stakeholders of its continued commitment to a smooth electoral process. (The Guardian)