Why we can’t conduct voter revalidation now - INEC

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated it cannot conduct a voter revalidation exercise before the 2027 General Election, citing insufficient time. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan explained that while revalidating records, particularly for elderly voters who registered as far back as 2011, is crucial for future electoral processes, the exercise must be postponed until after the upcoming polls.

Amupitan made these remarks in Abuja while receiving Mr. Moritz Sprenker, the Country Representative of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS). He highlighted KAS as a long-standing partner, commending their contributions to constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and good governance globally. He noted past collaborations on regulatory frameworks for political parties and technical retreats that aided preparations for the Osun State governorship election in August 2026.

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a significant number of voters, particularly the elderly who registered as far back as 2011, would need to have their records validated, but explained that the exercise could not be conducted before the 2027 polls for want of time.

Looking ahead, Amupitan outlined strategic priorities for continued partnership with KAS. These include enhancing civic education and democratic culture, advancing electoral technology, building institutional capacity, countering misinformation, deepening inclusivity for persons with disabilities and marginalized groups, and fostering interagency dialogue for peaceful electoral processes.

Sprenker, in response, shared that KAS operates in over 100 countries and has been active in Nigeria for more than 25 years, working with government, civil society, academia, and the media. He recalled a capacity-building workshop on procurement held with INEC in Lagos in March 2026 and affirmed KAS's continued interest in strengthening its partnership with the commission.

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KAS is active in more than 100 countries and has worked in Nigeria for over 25 years across government, civil society, academia, and the media.