INEC disclaims viral report on May 2025 voter card revalidation exercise

By Evi Abinama

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has debunked a viral message claiming a voter card revalidation will commence in May.

According to the circulating message, voter registration, transfer, and card replacement would begin on May 27 and end on June 5.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the message has been widely shared on social media platforms and WhatsApp groups, causing confusion among the public.

INEC has now clarified that no such date has been approved for any voter registration or revalidation activity.

In a statement issued by Mr. Sam Olumekun, INEC emphasized that the report did not originate from its office.

Mr. Olumekun is the National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee.

He warned Nigerians to disregard any unofficial messages about voter registration exercises or election-related procedures.

INEC stated that all official announcements are made through its verified website and recognized media platforms.

The Commission maintains a transparent process for communicating voter registration schedules and election timelines.

Preparations for the 2027 general elections are ongoing internally, but no public voter exercise has been scheduled yet.

INEC assured the public that any upcoming registration exercise would be widely publicized before it begins.

Such publicity will include TV and radio announcements, online updates, and newspaper publications across the country.

INEC reminded Nigerians of the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which concluded in July 2022.

During that CVR, over 12 million new voters were added to the national voter register.

The Commission consistently follows due process in all electoral activities, including registration and distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

INEC further cautioned against messages that carry religious or political sentiments tied to unverified electoral claims.

The viral message urged people, especially “the righteous,” to stand in prayer and act rightly during elections.

INEC described such language as misleading and capable of creating unnecessary tension among religious or political groups.

The public is strongly advised to verify any electoral information through INEC’s verified channels.

These channels include its official website: www.inecnigeria.org and its social media pages @inecnigeria.

Nigerians are also encouraged to visit their local INEC offices for verified updates on electoral procedures.

INEC reiterated its commitment to a free, fair, credible, and inclusive electoral process in Nigeria.

The Commission will continue to ensure transparency and accuracy in all information related to elections and voter participation.

INEC condemned the deliberate spread of fake news and urged media literacy among Nigerians.

Disseminating false electoral information can disrupt democratic processes and mislead millions of eligible voters.

The Commission promised to take legal steps against individuals or groups spreading false electoral updates.

Citizens are advised to report suspicious messages or fake INEC notices to the nearest INEC office or security agency.

As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, INEC calls on everyone to remain calm and vigilant.

No voter registration, revalidation, or transfer process is scheduled for May or June 2025.

All legitimate updates regarding electoral events will be announced by INEC in due course.

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