Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed as completely false a viral social media report claiming that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Akwukwu Igbo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, was suspended due to a faulty registration machine. The commission, in a firm rebuttal on Friday, June 26, 2026, described the publication as misleading and not originating from any of its official channels. The clarification comes amid growing public anxiety over the integrity of the voter registration process, which is a critical component of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by the Head of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Nseabasi Udom, INEC categorically denied the claims, urging residents of Akwukwu Igbo and neighbouring communities to disregard the viral message and rely only on official communication from the commission for accurate information. According to Mrs. Udom, the report suggesting a suspension was entirely false and should be treated as baseless speculation. "The publication is false, misleading, and did not originate from the commission," she stated, reiterating that the electoral body remains committed to a transparent and credible registration process across the state.
The commission further explained that the voter registration exercise is proceeding in line with its approved rotation schedule for Delta State. Contrary to the viral report, INEC clarified that registration officials were deployed to Ibusa on Thursday, June 25, where the exercise was successfully conducted without any hitches. The centre in Akwukwu Igbo, which was the subject of the false report, is scheduled to resume operations from July 6 to July 10, as part of the structured timetable for the local government area. This explanation effectively puts to rest the rumour that the exercise had been halted indefinitely or that the community had been abandoned by the electoral body.
INEC's swift response underscores its determination to maintain public confidence in the electoral process, especially as the country gears up for the 2027 elections. The commission has repeatedly warned against the spread of misinformation and fake news, which can disenfranchise eligible voters and create unnecessary panic. In its statement, INEC urged all eligible voters to proceed with their registration and voter information updates as scheduled, assuring them that there has been no cancellation or disruption of the exercise. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent, credible, and accessible CVR process, while guaranteeing all eligible residents an equal opportunity to participate in the electoral process.
The viral report had sparked confusion and concern among residents of Akwukwu Igbo, many of whom had turned out to register or update their voter information. Some were reportedly turned away or left confused by conflicting information circulating on social media. INEC's clarification is therefore a welcome development, restoring order and providing clear guidance to the public. The commission also used the opportunity to advise citizens to always cross-check information from unofficial sources before acting on it, stressing that only communications originating from its official platforms should be trusted.
The false report on the CVR suspension highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in Nigeria's electoral space, a concern that has been amplified by the proliferation of social media and unverified online content. As the 2027 elections approach, INEC has stepped up its public engagement efforts, including voter education campaigns and media partnerships, to combat fake news and ensure citizens are well-informed about electoral processes. The commission has also called on stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and the media, to support its efforts by disseminating accurate information and debunking false narratives.
INEC's handling of the Delta State incident demonstrates its readiness to respond decisively to misinformation that threatens the integrity of the electoral process. By promptly issuing a statement with clear, factual information, the commission has reaffirmed its role as the authoritative source on electoral matters in Nigeria. As the CVR exercise continues across the country, INEC has assured Nigerians that it will maintain the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and accessibility, ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to exercise their franchise in the upcoming elections.
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