INEC Reaffirms 18 as Minimum Voting Age Ahead of 2027 Elections
Yobe REC urges traditional rulers to aid voter sensitization as registration kicks off statewide.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has restated that only Nigerians aged 18 and above are legally eligible to register and vote in elections.
Yobe State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Ibrahim Abdullahi, made the clarification during a visit to the Emir of Bade in Gashua. The statement followed inquiries on whether citizens below 18 could participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abdullahi emphasized that the Electoral Act is clear on the matter, noting that registration before the legal age is not permitted. He stressed that voter registration remains a crucial step in safeguarding credible polls, urging traditional leaders to partner with the commission in educating citizens.
According to the REC, online voter registration opened on August 18, while physical registration will commence on August 25 across all 17 local government areas of Yobe State. The exercise will cater to new voters, citizens turning 18, individuals with lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and those seeking to transfer their polling units.
INEC has consistently maintained that the integrity of Nigeria’s elections begins with accurate voter registration and has appealed for broad community support in ensuring widespread participation.
