The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for closing the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling the decision unreasonable and exclusionary. In an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, Amadi argued that voter registration should remain open until one month before the election to allow for last-minute registrations, especially among young Nigerians who turn 18 before Election Day. He emphasized that closing the CVR nearly seven months before the polls denies many eligible voters the chance to participate in the democratic process, effectively sidelining them until the next election cycle.
Amadi acknowledged that INEC has made notable improvements in its electoral operations over the years. However, he pointed out that the commission still relies on outdated processes that hinder full voter participation. He stressed that the current timeline for closing voter registration does not account for the dynamic nature of Nigeria’s population, particularly the influx of new voters who become eligible shortly before elections. This, he said, undermines the inclusivity and fairness of the electoral system.
INEC had officially announced the closure of the ongoing CVR exercise on Sunday, July 26, urging all eligible Nigerians to register or update their records before the deadline. The commission has consistently emphasized the importance of an accurate and up-to-date voter register to ensure credible elections. However, critics like Amadi argue that the timing of the closure fails to consider the practical challenges many Nigerians face in accessing registration centers, especially in remote areas or during periods of high demand.
The CVR initiative, launched to allow continuous registration of voters, was designed to make the electoral process more inclusive and responsive. Yet, with the closure just months before the 2027 elections, concerns are growing about the potential for disenfranchisement, particularly among youth and first-time voters. Amadi’s comments reflect a broader call for electoral reforms that prioritize accessibility and fairness.
As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, the debate over voter registration timelines is likely to intensify. The outcome of this discussion could influence how many Nigerians are able to exercise their democratic rights. The upcoming election cycle will test whether the country’s electoral institutions can adapt to the needs of a growing and increasingly engaged electorate.
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