Published by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Lokoja, Nigeria — Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called on all eligible residents of Kogi State to participate in the ongoing voter card revalidation exercise organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Her appeal, delivered during the 2026 Easter celebrations, highlights the importance of active civic engagement and accurate voter registration as Nigeria prepares for future elections.
In her statement, Akpoti‑Uduaghan described Easter as a season of sacrifice, renewal, and hope, urging residents to reflect these values by engaging in peaceful coexistence and democratic participation. She emphasised that revalidating Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) is not only a civic responsibility but also a crucial step in ensuring that citizens retain their right to vote in upcoming elections.
The senator encouraged residents to visit designated INEC centres or use online platforms to verify and update their voter information. She stated, “Your vote is your voice. By participating in the revalidation process, you are securing your right to decide the leadership and direction of our state and nation.” She also called for unity among residents, urging them to rise above ethnic, religious, and political differences to build a more harmonious and progressive society.
INEC’s revalidation exercise targets existing voter records captured between 2011 and 2024 to remove ineligible entries. This includes deceased persons, duplicate registrations, underage registrants, and non‑Nigerians. The commission clarified that this process is a verification and update of records rather than fresh voter registration. The aim is to ensure that the electoral register reflects only eligible voters, strengthening the credibility and integrity of elections nationwide.
The initiative has attracted attention nationwide as a critical step in preparing for the general elections scheduled for 2027. Experts have highlighted that accurate and up‑to‑date voter records are essential to reducing electoral disputes, preventing fraud, and giving citizens confidence that their participation will be recognised.
Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s appeal comes amid a backdrop of political challenges she has faced during her tenure. She has previously been suspended from the Senate and faced attempts by some constituents to initiate a recall process. The courts and INEC eventually invalidated the recall petitions, allowing her to maintain her legislative mandate. Despite these challenges, her current focus is on promoting voter engagement and democratic participation rather than political controversies.
Analysts note that local leadership endorsement of voter revalidation exercises can significantly influence public turnout. By actively encouraging constituents to participate, Akpoti‑Uduaghan seeks to enhance civic awareness, promote accountability, and ensure that the voices of Kogi residents are heard in future elections.
INEC’s revalidation is also part of broader electoral reforms aimed at modernising Nigeria’s voting infrastructure. By encouraging citizens to update their records, the commission aims to prevent ineligible entries from affecting the integrity of future polls, thereby strengthening the democratic process.
The timing of the senator’s appeal, coinciding with the Easter season, underscores the connection between civic responsibility and communal values. By linking voter revalidation to themes of renewal and hope, Akpoti‑Uduaghan frames electoral participation as both a personal duty and a collective contribution to the development of Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole.
Residents are now tasked with verifying their registration status and completing the revalidation process before INEC’s deadline. Public compliance with this exercise will serve as an important measure of electoral preparedness and engagement, potentially shaping voter participation strategies for upcoming elections.
As Nigeria continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, appeals from public officials like Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan highlight the importance of active citizen involvement, transparent electoral processes, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence. Her message underscores that active participation in voter registration and revalidation remains central to the country’s democratic journey.
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