The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has concluded the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, despite widespread calls from political parties, civil society organisations and election stakeholders for an extension.
INEC maintained that the July 26 deadline complies with the Electoral Act 2022, which requires voter registration to end at least 90 days before an election to allow for data cleaning, production of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and other logistical preparations.
The commission urged eligible Nigerians to complete their registration before the deadline, insisting there would be no further extension.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) argued that voter registration should remain open continuously, saying every eligible Nigerian with a National Identification Number (NIN) should be able to register at any time.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP), however, supported suspending the exercise for administrative reasons but suggested registration should reopen for future elections after preparations for the 2027 polls.
Many prospective voters also complained of technical glitches, poor internet connectivity, malfunctioning biometric machines, overcrowded registration centres and delays on INEC's online registration portal.
Several applicants said their registration process remained incomplete despite repeated attempts before the deadline.
Meanwhile, the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) urged INEC to reconsider its decision, citing a Federal High Court ruling that voter registration should continue until 90 days before a general election.
The group warned that ending the exercise early could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, particularly young Nigerians turning 18 before the 2027 elections.
Election advocacy groups also expressed concern that the closure could affect first-time voters, while former Voice of Nigeria Director-General Osita Okechukwu urged INEC to prioritise free, fair and credible elections as the foundation for strengthening internal democracy within political parties.
In Osun State, gunmen disrupted PVC distribution at a registration centre in Odo-Otin Local Government Area, firing shots into the air and reportedly making away with several packs of voter cards.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident ahead of the state's August 15 governorship election.
Political stakeholders have also linked low voter turnout to growing public distrust in the electoral process, calling for reforms that would improve public confidence and encourage greater participation in future elections.
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