INEC launches investigation into voter register AI-generated photographs

INEC launches investigation into voter register AI-generated photographs

Promises to deploy appropriate corrective action

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From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that it has launched a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs and possible technical or procedural lapses in the preliminary voters register.

The commission, in a statement by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), promised to also take appropriate action based on verified findings.

While explaining that a number of questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display of the voters register, it revealed that the commission has commenced the process of reviewing these records and taking appropriate corrective action in accordance with established procedures.

The commission equally assured Nigerians that verified irregularities will be addressed through the applicable procedures and that further updates will be provided as the review progresses.

According to the statement: “INEC has noted public concerns and reports circulating on social media regarding suspected AI-generated photographs appearing in the Preliminary Register of Voters recently published on its website.”

“The commission wishes to clarify that the register published online on 26 October 2026 is the same preliminary register physically displayed at Registration Areas (RAs) nationwide from 9 to 15 October 2026 as part of the Display, Claims and Objections exercise.

“During the physical display, a number of questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination. The commission commenced the process of reviewing these records and taking appropriate corrective action in accordance with established procedures.

“The online publication represents the original preliminary register and does not reflect all ongoing data-cleanup activities.

“It is important to emphasise that the preliminary register is not the final certified register. The Display, Claims and Objections exercise is specifically intended to facilitate public scrutiny, identify inaccuracies and irregularities, and enable appropriate corrections before certification,” it explained.

Reacting further, the electoral umpire noted that: “The commission is also examining the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs, including possible technical or procedural lapses, and will take appropriate action based on verified findings.”

“The commission appreciates the vigilance of citizens and stakeholders who have brought these concerns to public attention. Such scrutiny contributes to the process of improving the accuracy and integrity of the register.

“INEC remains committed to completing the necessary verification, adjudication, and data-cleanup processes ahead of the scheduled certification of the final Register of Voters on 15 December 2026.

“The commission assures Nigerians that verified irregularities will be addressed through the applicable procedures and that further updates will be provided as the review progresses,” INEC promised in the statement.

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