The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has instructed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country to suspend all publicity and arrangements related to the planned voter revalidation exercise.
The directive was communicated in a letter dated April 4, 2026, and signed by the commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony. While the commission ordered a pause on public-facing activities, it asked RECs to continue internal preparations, including mobilizing personnel and getting voter enrolment devices ready.
“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.
This development comes shortly after INEC had announced plans to begin a nationwide voter revalidation exercise on April 13, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a related update, the commission also confirmed a change in the format of its upcoming meeting with RECs, which will now be held virtually.
“Further to the notice of meeting dated April 3, 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.
RECs have been advised to remain in their respective states while awaiting further details for the meeting.
“Consequently, RECs are advised to remain in their states and await the login details, which will be shared once the meeting is set up,” INEC said.
The commission also apologized for any inconvenience caused by the sudden changes.
