INEC Debunks Viral Report on Suspension of Voter Registration in Delta State

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has refuted reports circulating on social media claiming that the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise had been suspended in Delta State.

The commission described the viral report as false and misleading, urging members of the public, particularly eligible voters in the state, to disregard the misinformation and continue to participate in the registration exercise as scheduled.

INEC, in a statement issued by its Delta State office, reaffirmed that the voter registration exercise was ongoing across all designated centres in the state and had not been suspended at any point as wrongly claimed in the viral report.

The commission stressed that the CVR exercise was a critical aspect of its preparations for the 2027 general elections, and that it would not deliberately disrupt the process without due notice to the public.

INEC clarified that any official communication about changes to the registration exercise, including suspensions, extensions, or relocations of centres, would only be issued through its official channels and not through unverified social media posts.

The electoral body urged eligible Nigerians in Delta State, particularly first-time voters, persons seeking voter transfer, and those wishing to update their registration details, to take advantage of the ongoing exercise and ensure they are properly captured on the voter register.

INEC also reminded the public that the CVR exercise covers fresh registrations, transfer of registration, replacement of damaged or lost Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and updates to existing voter information, in line with the commission's guidelines.

The commission called on the media, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to assist in disseminating accurate information about its activities, while urging the public to verify reports about its operations before sharing them on social media platforms.

INEC also warned mischief-makers and individuals behind the spread of false information about its operations, noting that such acts could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and disrupt the commission's efforts to ensure inclusive and credible elections.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections, stressing that voter registration remained a fundamental step in achieving that goal and ensuring the active participation of citizens in the country's democratic process.

It encouraged Nigerians in Delta State and across the country to continue to engage with its operations, comply with its guidelines, and visit designated registration centres to update or complete their voter registration.

The development comes amid growing public interest in the ongoing CVR exercise and preparations for the 2027 general elections, with INEC continuing to roll out measures aimed at strengthening the integrity, accessibility, and credibility of the electoral process.