The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to make the Preliminary Register of Voters for the 2027 general election available online following concerns from Nigerians and other stakeholders over access to the document.
The commission said the online publication would complement the physical display of the register conducted nationwide from October 9 to 15, 2026, allowing more registered voters to verify their details.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 26, and signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), the commission said the decision was taken to improve transparency and public access to the register.
“Accordingly, and in furtherance of its commitment to transparency, accessibility and public confidence in the electoral process, the Commission has decided to make available on its online platform display.inecnigeria.org the same Preliminary Register of Voters earlier displayed at the Registration Areas,” the statement said.
INEC explained that the physical display had been conducted in line with Section 19 of the Electoral Act, 2026, which provides for registered voters to inspect their particulars and submit claims and objections where necessary.
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The commission acknowledged calls for the register to be accessible online in addition to the physical exercise already completed across the country.
“The Commission has taken note of the concerns expressed by Nigerians and other stakeholders regarding the desirability of making the Register accessible through its online platform in addition to the physical display already conducted,” the statement added.
According to INEC, the online publication is intended to widen access to the register while the commission continues to address claims and objections submitted during the physical display.
“This additional measure complements the physical display already undertaken and is intended to facilitate wider public access to the Register.
“Meanwhile, the Commission continues to process claims and objections arising from the exercise in accordance with the Electoral Act, 2026, preparatory to the certification and publication of the Final Register of Voters on 15th December 2026,” the statement said.
The final voter register is scheduled for publication on December 15, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general election.
INEC also urged Nigerians and stakeholders to remain engaged in the electoral process, reaffirming its commitment to conducting credible elections.
“The Commission appreciates the continued interest and constructive engagement of Nigerians and stakeholders and reiterates its commitment to transparency, accountability and the faithful implementation of the Electoral Act, 2026 in delivering credible elections,” Haruna said on behalf of the commission.
The online access is expected to give registered voters another opportunity to check their details and identify possible errors, while the ongoing processing of claims and objections will inform the final register to be used for the 2027 polls.