Independent National Electoral Commission has instructed all Resident Electoral Commissioners to suspend publicity and preparations for the planned nationwide voter revalidation exercise.

The exercise was originally set to start on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Earlier, a memo signed by the commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, instructed RECs to start preparations, including mobilizing staff and deploying INEC Voter Enrolment Devices (IVEDs).

The plan indicated that the exercise would be conducted in phases: first at the local government level from April 13 to May 2, then at registration areas from May 5 to May 11, and finally at polling units from May 13 to May 19.

However, following public outrage, INEC issued a follow-up directive halting all activities. “RECs are also directed to stop all publicity and arrangements for the voter revalidation exercise and wait for further instructions,” the notice said.

The commission also announced that its meeting with RECs, originally planned as a physical session, would now be held virtually. “The meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. will now hold via Zoom,” the statement confirmed.

RECs were told to stay in their states and await additional instructions, including login details for the online meeting. INEC apologized for any inconvenience and reaffirmed its commitment to a smooth and credible election process.