The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has started a review of questionable voter registration records identified during the physical display of the preliminary register of voters. This move follows public concerns over suspected artificial intelligence-generated photographs and duplicate profiles. INEC Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, stated that the Commission is investigating reports of AI-generated photographs in the register.
The concerns were noted by the Commission during the physical display of the preliminary register, with a number of questionable registration records identified and flagged for further examination. INEC has commenced the process of reviewing these records and taking appropriate corrective action in accordance with established procedures. The review aims to address public concerns and ensure the accuracy and credibility of the voter register.
INEC clarified that the register uploaded to its website on October 26 was the same preliminary document displayed at Registration Areas nationwide between October 9 and 15 during the Display, Claims and Objections exercise. The online version does not reflect the corrections and data-cleanup activities currently underway. INEC emphasized that the preliminary register is not the final certified list of eligible voters.
The Commission stressed that the display exercise was designed to allow citizens and other stakeholders to identify errors, discrepancies, and possible irregularities before the register is finalized. INEC commended citizens and stakeholders who drew attention to the alleged irregularities, describing public scrutiny as an important part of efforts to improve the accuracy and credibility of the voter register.
INEC is also investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs to determine whether technical or procedural lapses contributed to their appearance in the register. The Commission will take appropriate action based on verified findings. This investigation aims to identify the root cause of the issue and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The electoral body assured Nigerians that any irregularities established through the review would be addressed in line with existing procedures. INEC said the verification, adjudication, and data-cleanup exercises would be completed before the certification of the final Register of Voters, scheduled for December 15, 2026. This timeline ensures that the voter register is accurate and credible before the 2027 general elections.
The controversy has drawn attention to the importance of maintaining an accurate and credible voter register as preparations gather pace for the 2027 general elections. INEC's swift action demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. The Commission's efforts to address the irregularities will help to build trust in the electoral process and ensure that the 2027 elections are free and fair.
Key points
- INEC has started a review of questionable voter registration records amid concerns over AI-generated photos and duplicate profiles.
- The review aims to address public concerns and ensure the accuracy and credibility of the voter register.
- INEC will complete the verification, adjudication, and data-cleanup exercises before certifying the final Register of Voters on December 15, 2026.
