The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has postponed the proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general election.

The commission cited the need for further deliberation on the process.

The decision was reached on Friday during a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), where the exercise formed part of discussions on electoral preparations.

INEC, in a statement signed by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the revalidation exercise remains a critical component of its mandate to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters.

According to the commission, 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.

Haruna added that the process would also provide an opportunity for registered voters to confirm their details and make necessary corrections where required.

“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.

“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 exercise also aims to provide an opportunity for registered voters to confirm their details and make necessary corrections where required,” he said.

The commission reiterated its commitment to the conduct of free, fair, credible and inclusive elections.

The decision to halt the process comes amid growing concerns from stakeholders over the timing and transparency of the exercise.

The Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, had described the proposed revalidation as a commendable policy but ill-timed.

Itodo noted that while Nigeria’s voter register required urgent clean-up to eliminate errors, duplicate entries and deceased persons, the framework and procedures for the exercise were yet to be clearly communicated to the public.

According to him, a voter revalidation exercise carries significant political and electoral implications, making timing and transparency critical.

He had warned that with the 2027 electoral cycle already facing tight timelines, introducing a nationwide revalidation could overstretch the system, confuse voters and potentially suppress participation.