By Muhammed Danjuma Ogwu, Lafia
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nasarawa State has announced plans to resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise across the state’s 13 local government areas beginning in August.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Nasarawa State, Dr. Shehu Al-Wahab, disclosed this during a media briefing at the Commission’s headquarters in Lafia.
Dr. Al-Wahab stated that the CVR exercise, which allows eligible Nigerians to register to vote or update their voter details, will begin with online pre-registration on August 18, 2025, while in-person registration will commence on August 25, 2025 at INEC offices across the state. The exercise, he noted, will be conducted in accordance with Sections 9 and 10 of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended).
“We are fully prepared to begin the Continuous Voter Registration,” Dr. Al-Wahab said. “Online registration will open on August 18, and physical registration will begin a week later, on August 25, across all 13 LGAs in Nasarawa State.”
The CVR, he explained, targets Nigerians who have turned 18 and are yet to be captured in the national Voter Register. It also provides a window for registered voters to replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), transfer voting locations, or correct personal information.
Dr. Al-Wahab, however, raised serious concern over the rate of multiple registrations during the last voter registration cycle, revealing that INEC recorded nearly 50 percent double registrations nationwide.
“This is an alarming trend,” he warned. “We strongly advise those who have already registered not to return to the registration centres. Doing so could invalidate their existing records.”
He reiterated that voter registration is free of charge, and any staff or agent found collecting money for the process would face severe sanctions.
INEC also expressed dismay over the proliferation of campaign posters and banners ahead of the 2027 elections, describing the development as a violation of the Electoral Act. Dr. Al-Wahab disclosed that INEC would soon convene a meeting with leaders of political parties and other key stakeholders to address the matter.
“We have observed with concern the widespread display of campaign materials in public places. This is premature and unlawful. We will engage all parties to ensure compliance with the provisions of the law,” he added.
As the electoral commission intensifies preparations for a seamless voter registration exercise, stakeholders and the public are urged to support the process and uphold the integrity of the democratic system.