Opposition parties, civil society groups, and political stakeholders have raised concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s proposed voter revalidation exercise, warning it could disenfranchise millions of Nigerians and undermine trust in the electoral process.
The plan, scheduled to run from April 13 to May 29, is aimed at cleaning up the voter register by removing ineligible entries such as deceased persons, underage voters, and multiple registrations. INEC clarified that the exercise targets those registered between 2011 and 2024 and is not a fresh registration.
However, parties including the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party have questioned both the timing and feasibility of the exercise. They argue that conducting it less than a year before the 2027 general elections could create confusion and limit participation, especially among rural voters.
Critics also point to logistical and technological challenges, noting that many Nigerians—particularly in remote areas—may lack the resources or awareness required to complete the process. Some stakeholders warned that requiring tools like the National Identification Number could exclude a significant portion of the population.
The Obidient Movement and several civil society organisations echoed similar concerns, warning that the exercise could further erode public confidence in INEC. They argue that existing distrust in the electoral system may worsen if voters feel deliberately excluded.
Although INEC later directed its Resident Electoral Commissioners to suspend preparations and publicity for the exercise pending further directives, concerns remain about its potential impact on voter turnout and electoral credibility.
Experts, including former INEC officials, acknowledge that the commission has the legal authority to conduct voter revalidation. However, they stress that the timing—so close to a major election—raises valid political and operational concerns.
While some analysts consider the exercise necessary to improve the integrity of the voter register, many insist that rebuilding public trust and ensuring inclusivity should take priority ahead of the 2027 elections.
