By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently clarify reports of a proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise, warning that such a move—if confirmed—could disrupt the electoral process and disenfranchise millions of voters.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party described the alleged plan, reportedly contained in a leaked internal memo, as a “recipe for chaos,” especially given its timing less than ten months before the next general elections.
The ADC expressed concern that requiring already registered voters to revalidate their details within a limited timeframe would discourage participation and worsen existing voter apathy.
According to the party, the policy could unfairly affect citizens who may be unable to travel to designated centres to complete the process.
“Are Nigerians who cannot return for this exercise to lose their right to vote?” the statement queried, highlighting the potential exclusion of millions under such a system.
The party also warned that introducing additional procedural hurdles at a critical pre-election period could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. It argued that reduced voter turnout would inevitably raise questions about the legitimacy and credibility of the elections.
Beyond logistical concerns, the ADC cautioned INEC against actions that might be perceived as politically motivated. It suggested that confusion arising from such a policy could inadvertently benefit the ruling party, while urging the electoral body to remain impartial and transparent in its operations.
The emergence of the alleged plan through a leaked memo, rather than an official announcement, was also criticized. The party described the development as troubling, noting that a national exercise of such magnitude should be communicated clearly and in advance to the public.
The ADC further maintained that if voter revalidation was necessary, it should have been conducted shortly after the last general elections—not on the eve of another.
Calling for immediate clarification, the party urged INEC to abandon any such proposal and reassure Nigerians of its commitment to a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process.
“Nigeria’s democracy cannot afford avoidable disruptions,” the statement concluded, emphasizing that the right to vote must not be subjected to last-minute administrative measures.
