The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to investigate suspected artificial intelligence (AI)-generated photographs and alleged alterations to personal data in the preliminary Register of Voters published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This request follows INEC's acknowledgement of suspected AI-generated photographs and questionable registration records identified during the nationwide display of the preliminary register between October 9 and 15, 2026.
SERAP also urged Tinubu to ensure an independent investigation to establish the extent of the reported irregularities, identify those responsible, and ensure that affected Nigerians can verify and correct their records without being unfairly excluded from the electoral process. The organisation made these demands in a letter dated October 31, 2026, and signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare. The letter emphasised the need for an independent forensic examination of INEC's affected database and systems.
The reported irregularities raise serious concerns about the security and integrity of Nigerians' personal data and the reliability of the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections. SERAP stated that the security and accuracy of the voters' register were fundamental to protecting Nigerians' personal data and their right to participate in public affairs. Nigerians should not have to worry that their personal information could be altered, manipulated, or accessed without proper safeguards.
SERAP further called on the NDPC to conduct an independent forensic examination of INEC's affected database and systems to establish whether personal data were unlawfully accessed or altered. The organisation also urged the commission to determine whether the incidents constituted a personal data breach under Section 65 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 and whether INEC fulfilled its notification and record-keeping obligations.
The organisation expressed concern that the irregularities might involve unlawful alteration or processing of personal data, possible misuse of authorised access credentials, and failures to protect information held by INEC. SERAP noted that Sections 24 and 39 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 require personal data to be processed accurately and securely and protected against unlawful alteration, loss, or unauthorised access.
SERAP also raised concerns about the implications of the irregularities for Nigerians' constitutional and international human rights, particularly the rights to privacy and political participation. The organisation cited Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, alongside Article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
INEC, in a statement issued on October 27, acknowledged public concerns over suspected AI-generated photographs appearing in the preliminary register published on its website. The electoral commission had said that during the nationwide physical display of the register, several questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination. INEC promised to complete the necessary verification, adjudication, and data-cleanup processes before certifying the final Register of Voters on December 15, 2026.
Key points
- SERAP demands independent investigation into AI-generated photos in INEC voters' register.
- Investigation aims to establish extent of irregularities and ensure affected Nigerians can verify and correct records.
- SERAP threatens legal action if demands are not addressed within seven days.
