The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ordered all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to suspend all activities related to the planned voter revalidation exercise.

The commission, which had earlier scheduled a nationwide voter revalidation drive to commence on April 13, 2026, announced the halt in a letter signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony. The exercise was intended to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The original plan outlined a phased exercise beginning at the Local Government Area (LGA) level from April 13 to May 2, moving to the Registration Area (RA) level from May 5 to May 11, and concluding at polling units (PUs) from May 13 to May 19.

INEC also revealed that a previously scheduled physical meeting with RECs for Thursday, April 9, 2026, will now hold virtually via Zoom. The commission advised RECs to remain in their respective states and await login credentials for the virtual meeting.

“RECs are directed to suspend all publicity and preparations for the voter revalidation exercise and await further instructions from the commission,” the letter stated.

The electoral body regretted any inconvenience the sudden changes might cause and assured the RECs of its consideration.