INEC Enforces Strict Age Rule: Only 18+ Can Register to Vote

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed that the minimum age for voter registration remains 18 years.

This clarification was made by the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Yobe State, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, during an advocacy visit to the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar-Suleiman, in Gashua on Thursday.

The REC was responding to a question from the Emir, who asked whether individuals aged 16 or 17 could register now in anticipation of turning 18 by the 2027 elections.

“Only eligible citizens of 18 years and above are allowed to register and vote under the Electoral Act,” the REC said.

According to him, voter registration is a critical aspect of the electoral process which could make or mar the integrity of any election.

Abdullahi further explained that he was at the palace to solicit the Emir’s support in enlightening the people in his domain for the successful conduct of the Continuous Voter Registration, CVR.

The REC pointed out that INEC is mandated by the law to collaborate with stakeholders and review voter register ahead of any election.

He said online voter registration had already begun on August 18, while the physical registration was slated for August 25, adding that both components would last for one year.

The REC said the physical registration would be conducted at INEC headquarters in Damaturu and its registration centres across the 17 local government areas of the state.

He listed the target beneficiaries to include residents who had not been previously registered, those who turned 18, those with issues with Permanent Voter Card, PVCs, and those who wished to change their polling units.