INEC Warns AI Misuse Threatens 2027 Election Credibility

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning regarding the potential misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of the 2027 general elections. In a statement signed by Victoria Eta-Messi, the Director of Voter Education and Publicity, INEC stated that the risk of AI-generated manipulated content is now a pressing concern.

National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, speaking in Abuja at a workshop for Public Affairs Officers, highlighted that generative AI makes it easier to create undetectable fake audio, video, and images. He noted that AI could also produce targeted messages that convey conflicting narratives to different voter groups.

Haruna emphasized the interconnectedness of electoral technology and communication, referencing INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan's assertion that electoral credibility relies not only on physical voting materials but also on the information environment. The workshop aimed to equip public affairs officers with skills to address emerging information challenges as the elections approach.