The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State has announced its readiness to commence the claims and objections phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), as part of efforts to update and validate the state’s voters’ register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The exercise, which forms the second phase of the CVR process, is scheduled to begin on April 29 and conclude on May 5 across all 23 Local Government Area offices of the commission.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Professor Gabriel Yomere, disclosed this in a statement issued through the commission’s Head of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Geraldine Ekelemu.
According to Yomere, the process is designed to give registered voters the opportunity to verify their personal details, including new registrations, transfers, and updates made during the CVR exercise.
He explained that the exercise would also enable citizens to identify and correct errors or omissions in their registration data.
“The process will allow the public to scrutinise the preliminary register and raise objections where necessary,” he said.
Yomere further noted that the claims and objections period would also serve as a safeguard against irregularities in the voters’ register, allowing the removal of ineligible names.
He said such objections could target entries involving deceased persons, underage individuals, foreigners, or any other persons not qualified to vote.
“Valid objections will lead to the removal of such names from the preliminary register,” he stated.
The REC emphasised that a credible and accurate voter register remains fundamental to the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections.
He urged all eligible voters in Rivers State to take advantage of the exercise and actively participate in the verification process.
Yomere also assured stakeholders of INEC’s commitment to strengthening the electoral system and ensuring transparency in all pre-election activities.
He added that the exercise was a key part of preparations for the 2027 general elections and called for cooperation from the public and relevant stakeholders to ensure its success.
