The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into suspected artificial intelligence-generated photographs discovered in the preliminary register of voters published on its website, amid efforts to verify questionable records and identify possible technical or procedural lapses.
The commission said it had identified and flagged suspicious registration records during the physical display of the preliminary register across Registration Areas nationwide, adding that the process of reviewing the records and correcting confirmed irregularities was underway.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 27, and signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), the commission clarified that the register uploaded to its website on October 26 was the same preliminary register displayed physically from October 9 to 15 under 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 statement said.
INEC explained that the online publication did not incorporate all the data-cleanup activities already in progress, stressing that the uploaded document represented the original preliminary register.
“The online publication represents the original preliminary register and does not reflect all ongoing data-cleanup activities,” it said.
The commission emphasised that the register had not yet been certified as final, noting that the Display, Claims and Objections exercise was designed to allow members of the public to scrutinise voter records, identify inaccuracies and irregularities, and facilitate corrections before certification.
“It is important to emphasize 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,” the statement added.
INEC probes origin of suspicious photographs
Addressing concerns over the suspected AI-generated photographs, the commission said it was investigating how the images entered the register and whether weaknesses in its technical systems or registration procedures contributed to the problem.
“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,” it said.
INEC did not disclose the number of affected records or identify the specific technical or procedural issues under investigation.
The commission welcomed concerns raised by citizens and other stakeholders, describing public scrutiny as an important part of efforts to strengthen the accuracy and integrity of the voters’ register.
“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,” the statement said.
Final voters’ register due December 15
INEC said it would complete the necessary verification, adjudication and data-cleanup processes before certifying the final Register of Voters on December 15, 2026.
It assured Nigerians that confirmed irregularities would be addressed in accordance with established procedures and that further updates would be provided as the investigation and review progressed.
The commission reiterated that the preliminary register remained subject to scrutiny and correction before final certification.
The statement was signed by Haruna and dated October 27, 2026.
