INEC Probes Suspected AI-Generated Photos In Voters’ Register

…. Begins Data Cleanup

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced an investigation into suspected AI-generated photographs discovered in the Preliminary Register of Voters, assuring Nigerians that verified irregularities will be corrected before the final register is certified on December 15, 2026.

The commission said the online register published on October 26 was the same preliminary register displayed physically at Registration Areas nationwide between October 9 and 15 for public scrutiny, claims and objections.

INEC explained that the online version contained the original preliminary records and did not reflect all ongoing data-cleanup activities.

The clarification follows public concerns and reports circulating on social media over suspicious photographs allegedly generated using artificial intelligence in the voters’ register.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, said the commission had identified and flagged some questionable registration records during the physical display exercise.

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

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

According to the commission, appropriate action will be taken based on verified findings from the investigation.

The electoral body stressed that the preliminary register was not the final certified Register of Voters, noting that the display, claims and objections exercise was designed to allow citizens to identify inaccuracies and irregularities before certification.

The commission said the exercise remained a critical part of efforts to improve the accuracy and integrity of the voters’ register.

INEC appreciated Nigerians and other stakeholders who raised concerns about the suspected irregularities, describing public scrutiny as an important contribution to strengthening the electoral process.

It assured citizens that the verification, adjudication and data-cleanup processes would be completed ahead of the scheduled certification of the final Register of Voters on December 15, 2026.

The commission also promised to provide further updates as the review progresses.