The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the postponement of its planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general elections.
The decision was made public in a statement issued on Friday by Mohammed Haruna, following a consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs).
According to the Commission, the proposal for the exercise was reviewed extensively before a final resolution was reached to defer it.
INEC explained that the voter revalidation process remained a critical aspect of its constitutional responsibility to maintain a credible and updated National Register of Voters.
The exercise is designed to verify voter records, correct inaccuracies, and remove duplicate or ineligible entries, including those of deceased or underage individuals.
“It 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 noted.
It also emphasised that the process provides an avenue for registered voters to confirm and update their personal details where necessary.
The revalidation exercise had earlier been scheduled to take place between April 13 and May 19, 2026, and was to be conducted in phases across local governments, wards, and polling units nationwide.
INEC reiterated that the postponement is aimed at ensuring a seamless and well-coordinated preparation for the 2027 elections.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting “free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections.”
Meanwhile, the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise would proceed as planned from April 2026 through January 2027.
INEC also disclosed that it would continue deploying electoral technologies such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and a hybrid results transmission system to enhance transparency.
The 2027 general elections have been scheduled for January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly polls, while governorship and State Assembly elections will hold on February 6, 2027.
The Commission maintained that all adjustments to its timetable are geared towards strengthening electoral integrity and ensuring a smooth electoral process across Nigeria.
