INEC Investigates Suspected AI-Generated Photos in Preliminary Voters’ Register
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into reports of suspected artificial intelligence-generated photographs appearing in the Preliminary Register of Voters published on its website.
The Commission said it was examining the circumstances surrounding the suspicious images, including possible technical or procedural lapses, and would take appropriate action based on verified findings.
In a statement, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, explained that the preliminary register uploaded online on October 26, 2026, was the same register physically displayed at Registration Areas across the country from October 9 to 15.
According to the Commission, questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display exercise.
INEC said it subsequently began reviewing the records and implementing corrective measures in line with its established procedures.
Online Register Does Not Reflect Ongoing Review
The electoral body clarified that the version published online contains the original preliminary register and does not incorporate all the data-cleaning activities currently underway.
The distinction means that the appearance of a questionable photograph in the online register does not, by itself, establish that the record has been validated as genuine or that the Commission has completed its review.
INEC said its ongoing investigation would establish how the suspicious photographs entered the register and determine whether any technical or procedural failures occurred.
It added that further action would be guided by the findings of the investigation.
INEC Acknowledges Public Concerns
The Commission thanked citizens and other stakeholders who raised concerns about the photographs, describing public vigilance as important to maintaining the credibility of Nigeria’s voter registration process.
The development has drawn attention to the importance of accurate voter registration records and effective safeguards against questionable entries.
However, the suspected use of AI-generated photographs remains under investigation. INEC has not, in the statement, established the identities of those responsible or confirmed the circumstances in which the images were introduced.
The Commission’s findings are expected to clarify the nature of the irregularities and the corrective measures required.
INEC’s explanation also underscores the need to distinguish between the preliminary register made available for public scrutiny and the data-cleaning process intended to address questionable records before the register is finalised.
