The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has opened its Preliminary Register of Voters for online verification ahead of the 2027 general election, following concerns raised by Nigerians and other stakeholders over public access to the register.
The Commission said the preliminary register, which was physically displayed at Registration Areas nationwide from October 9 to 15, 2026, would now be accessible online to enable registered voters to check their particulars.
INEC disclosed this in a press statement issued on Monday by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC).
According to the Commission, the decision followed concerns expressed by Nigerians and stakeholders over the need to make the register accessible online in addition to the physical display already conducted 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 said.
INEC explained that the decision was part of efforts to promote transparency, improve accessibility and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
“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 the same Preliminary Register of Voters earlier displayed at the Registration Areas,” the Commission stated.
The preliminary register is available for public inspection through INEC’s online platform at display.inecnigeria.org.
The Commission said the online publication would complement the physical display and enable more Nigerians to access the register ahead of the 2027 general election.
“This additional measure complements the physical display already undertaken and is intended to facilitate wider public access to the Register,” INEC said.
The physical display exercise was conducted from October 9 to 15 in accordance with Section 19 of the Electoral Act, 2026, which provides for the inspection of the register and the submission of claims and objections by registered voters.
During the exercise, registered voters were given the opportunity to examine their particulars and report any discrepancies or other concerns in line with the provisions of the law.
INEC said it was still processing claims and objections arising from the exercise before the final register would be certified and published.
“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 added.
The December 15 deadline is expected to mark a key stage in the Commission’s preparations for the 2027 general election, as the final register will serve as the official record of eligible registered voters for the polls.
INEC also acknowledged the interest shown by Nigerians and stakeholders in the process, reiterating its commitment to openness and accountability in managing the voters’ register.
“The Commission appreciates the continued interest and constructive engagement of Nigerians and stakeholders,” the statement said.
It further reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the electoral process complies with the law and meets the expectations of Nigerians.
The Commission reiterated “its commitment to transparency, accountability and the faithful implementation of the Electoral Act, 2026 in delivering credible elections.”
The online publication comes amid growing attention to the accuracy and accessibility of the voters’ register ahead of the 2027 general election.
With the preliminary register now available online, registered voters have an additional opportunity to inspect their details while INEC continues to process claims and objections before the final register is published in December.