Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate publication of the preliminary voters’ register, expressing concerns that its absence from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) website during the announced scrutiny period from 9 to 15 October raises serious doubts about the integrity of the 2027 elections.
In a statement from Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku said, “INEC has announced over 103 million registered voters. Nigerians checked the portal and found it lacking. This is unacceptable. A number doesn’t verify itself, and a press release can’t inform a voter if their name has been omitted. Show Nigerians the register.”
Atiku highlighted that INEC’s failure to display the register during the seven-day exercise violates Section 19(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, which mandates online and physical displays. He demanded an explanation, stating, “INEC’s chairman mentioned on 5 October that the public display was already complete, but we were then told it would occur from 9 to 15 October. Which is accurate? For how long was the register accessible?”
He further questioned the legitimacy of ballot papers that lack INEC’s official mark, urging that safeguards must be in place to prevent counterfeit ballots. “Nigerians shouldn’t be denied access to the voters’ register before the election only to accept unmarked ballots later.”
Atiku also noted that INEC has not disclosed the identities of companies contracted to print sensitive electoral materials, insisting that as stakeholders in the presidential election, the ADC and Atiku have the right to demand transparency from INEC.
Addressing Bola Tinubu, he emphasised, “Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet, and you won’t add an unseen voters’ register to their burden to secure another four years in office. You must deal with the reality your governance has created.”
Atiku concluded by urging international partners and election observers to hold INEC accountable for transparency. He stated, “The right to vote begins with knowing your name is on the list. INEC must stop hiding behind a blank screen. Publish the register. Open it to scrutiny.”
