2027: INEC clarifies suspected AI-generated photos on voter register

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained that the preliminary register of voters published on its website contains the original records displayed nationwide earlier in October, clarifying concerns over suspected AI-generated photos found in the register.

The commission said the online register, published on 26 October 2026, was the same preliminary register physically displayed at Registration Areas (RAs) across the country from 9 to 15 October as part of the Display, Claims and Objections exercise.

Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, in a statement issued on Tuesday, 27 October, said some questionable registration records had been identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display.

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He said the commission had commenced a review of the records and was taking appropriate corrective measures in line with established procedures.

According to INEC, the online publication reflects the original preliminary register and does not incorporate all ongoing data-cleaning activities.

The commission stressed that the preliminary register was not the final certified register, explaining that the Display, Claims and Objections exercise was designed to enable public scrutiny, identify inaccuracies and irregularities, and facilitate necessary corrections before certification.

INEC also disclosed that it was investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs, including possible technical or procedural lapses.

It said appropriate action would be taken based on verified findings.

INEC commended citizens and stakeholders who raised concerns about the AI-generated photos, noting that public scrutiny would help improve the accuracy and integrity of the voter register.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to completing the necessary verification, adjudication, and data-cleaning processes ahead of the scheduled certification of the final Register of Voters on 15 December 2026.

It assured Nigerians that verified irregularities would be addressed through the applicable procedures, adding that further updates would be provided as the review progressed.