The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria is investigating the presence of AI-generated photos in its preliminary voter register. This was announced by INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, during a south-south zonal interactive meeting with staff in Port Harcourt, Rivers state. The commission has faced criticism after Nigerians identified duplicate entries, AI-generated photos, and names of deceased persons on the voter register.
According to Lawrence Bayode, INEC's director of information and communication technology, the irregularities were linked to registration officers who allegedly used their login details to introduce questionable records into the database. Amupitan stated that the commission is examining the records and will take corrective action based on verified findings. He encouraged the public to participate in the display, claims, and objections process ahead of the publication of the final register scheduled for December 15, 2026.
The INEC chairman also mentioned that the commission is preparing its bimodal voter accreditation system (BVAS), including 57,000 newly procured devices. Additionally, INEC is auditing electronic result management systems to strengthen transparency in result transmission through the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal. This move aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria.
Amupitan urged electoral officials in the south-south to uphold impartiality, discipline, and accountability as the commission intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections. He warned that anyone who threatens or harms INEC officials, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed for election duties, would face the full weight of the law. This statement emphasizes the commission's commitment to protecting its staff and ensuring a smooth electoral process.
The south-south zone has 15,823,550 registered voters, including 3,736,434 in Rivers. Amupitan stressed that no eligible voter should be disenfranchised through administrative negligence or logistical failure. He also highlighted the logistical challenges posed by the region's creeks, coastal settlements, and riverine communities. INEC has finalized a memorandum of understanding with the Maritime Transporters Union to support the timely and secure transportation of election personnel and materials.
The INEC chairman's statement comes amid concerns over the credibility of the voter register. The commission's efforts to address these concerns and ensure the integrity of the electoral process are crucial in maintaining public trust. By investigating AI-generated photos and discrepancies in the voter register, INEC aims to ensure that the 2027 elections are free, fair, and credible.
INEC's proactive measures to address the challenges in the south-south zone and ensure the smooth conduct of the 2027 elections are noteworthy. The commission's commitment to transparency, accountability, and impartiality will be essential in building trust and confidence in the electoral process. Key initiatives, such as the BVAS and IReV portal, will play a significant role in achieving this goal.
Key points
- INEC investigates AI-generated photos and discrepancies in voter register
- Commission prepares BVAS, including 57,000 newly procured devices
- INEC stresses impartiality, discipline, and accountability ahead of 2027 elections
