INEC Uncovers Dead Names on Voters’ Register, Orders Fresh Verification

INEC Uncovers Dead Names on Voters’ Register, Orders Fresh Verification

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has uncovered the presence of dead persons on Nigeria’s voters’ register, prompting the electoral body to announce a fresh nationwide verification exercise aimed at cleaning up the register ahead of future elections.

INEC disclosed that the discovery was made during its ongoing internal audit and data harmonisation processes, which include cross-checking the National Voters’ Register with records from relevant government agencies. The Commission said the exercise revealed cases where individuals who are confirmed deceased still appear as active voters.

According to INEC, the development underscores the need for continuous and rigorous register sanitisation to protect the credibility of elections and prevent manipulation of the electoral process. The Commission stressed that allowing inaccurate data to remain on the register could undermine public confidence and electoral integrity.

READ ALSO:

• Arsenal Edge Chelsea 1-0 to Secure Carabao Cup Final Spot
• EFCC Detains Kannywood Actress Samha Inuwa Over Alleged Naira Abuse
• PDP Crisis Deepens as Makinde, Wike Clash Over Party Control

To address the issue, INEC announced plans to commence a fresh verification and validation exercise, during which questionable entries will be reviewed, verified, and removed where necessary. The process will involve collaboration with civil registration authorities, security agencies, and other relevant institutions to ensure accurate identification of deceased persons.

INEC explained that the verification exercise will also give eligible voters the opportunity to confirm their registration status, correct personal details, and report anomalies linked to deceased relatives or impersonation. The Commission assured Nigerians that the process will be transparent and guided strictly by existing laws and regulations.

The electoral umpire reiterated that maintaining a clean, credible, and reliable voters’ register remains central to its mandate, especially as preparations continue toward future elections. It also warned that attempts to exploit the register for electoral malpractice would be met with strict sanctions.

INEC urged citizens, political parties, and civil society organisations to cooperate fully with the verification exercise, noting that public participation is critical to achieving a trustworthy electoral register.

INEC Uncovers Dead Names on Voters’ Register, Orders Fresh Verification