INEC Registers 184,064 New Voters in Benue as CVR Enters Final Phase

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has disclosed that no fewer than 184,064 new voters have been registered in Benue State in the first and second phases of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, exercise. This sharp increase in voter registration is a significant development in the state's electoral process because it shows a high level of interest in the elections.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in Benue State, Mallam Aminu Idris, made the disclosure on Thursday during his maiden press briefing at the Commission's state office in Makurdi. According to him, the first phase of the exercise recorded 55,866 new registrants. The second phase accounted for 128,198 new voters.

Mallam Idris explained that the figure represented only fresh registrations. He noted that requests for transfer of registration, replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, and updates of voter information also ran into thousands. Youths between the ages of 18 and 34 constituted the largest percentage of the newly registered voters, which doesn't come as a surprise since they're often more active in the electoral process.

"Those who have been previously registered, with their names captured in the Register of Voters, needn't register again. Failure to comply might lead to a total removal of the name from the Register or more punitive measures," he warned. He emphasized that it's essential to avoid duplicate registrations to prevent any issues.

The REC also revealed that INEC had commenced technical processes toward the restoration of suppressed state constituencies in Buruku, Gboko, Konshisha, Makurdi, and Ukum Local Government Areas, LGAs, in compliance with judicial pronouncements. The process had been completed in Buruku, Konshisha, Makurdi, and Ukum LGAs. Challenges in two registration areas had delayed completion in Gboko LGA. They're working to resolve these issues as soon as possible.

Mallam Idris assured residents that the Commission would continue to conduct its activities with transparency, professionalism, and fairness. He also appealed to media practitioners to continue partnering with INEC in disseminating accurate and timely information to the public on electoral activities in the state. They can't do it alone, so they need the media's support.

The ongoing third and final phase of the CVR exercise commenced on May 11, 2026, and would end on July 10, 2026. The REC urged eligible residents of the state who had attained voting age but hadn't yet registered to take advantage of the exercise before the deadline. They won't have another chance to register until the next cycle, so it's crucial they don't miss this opportunity.

The REC's assurance of transparency, professionalism, and fairness in the electoral process is crucial in maintaining public trust. As the electoral process progresses, it's essential to ensure that all eligible voters are registered and able to exercise their right to vote. They can't participate in the elections if they're not registered.

In the context of Nigeria's electoral history, the increase in voter registration is a positive development. It indicates a growing interest in the electoral process and a desire for citizens to participate in the democratic process. As the country prepares for future elections, it's essential to continue to strengthen the electoral process and ensure that all citizens have an opportunity to participate. This won't be easy, but it's necessary for the country's growth.

The registration of new voters is not only significant for the electoral process but also for the overall development of the country. It indicates a growing awareness of the importance of citizen participation in the democratic process and a desire for change. As the country moves forward, it's essential to continue to build on this momentum and ensure that all citizens have an opportunity to participate in the electoral process. They're the ones who'll be affected by the elections, so they should have a say in the outcome.