INEC Opens Online Voter Register Amid AI Photo Allegations

To broaden public participation in the review process, the Independent National Electoral Commission launched an online platform displaying the preliminary voter register for Nigeria's 2027 general election. This decision came after numerous Nigerians and civil society organisations requested digital access to supplement the physical viewings conducted at registration areas throughout the country.

The final certification of the register is scheduled for December 15, 2026. Concerns about data integrity have emerged as INEC confronts allegations of irregularities within the voter register.

Reports indicate the presence of questionable photographs suspected to be artificially created, as well as instances of voters appearing multiple times in the records. In response to these concerns, the commission launched an inquiry into such suspicious images while also examining whether technical lapses or procedural errors may have caused these problems.

Officials stressed that both the physical and digital versions currently accessible show only a preliminary register, not the definitive compilation for use during polling. A thorough examination and cleansing initiative is underway at INEC to eliminate mistakes and handle grievances submitted by the public.

The commission committed to correcting any validated problems prior to the December 15 deadline for finalisation. Public demand and advocacy from non-governmental organisations prompted INEC to introduce digital verification capabilities.

By granting citizens online access, the electoral body created an opportunity for people to examine their own records and notify authorities of any mistakes or inconsistencies. This preliminary stage permits the electorate and election observers to scrutinise the data thoroughly before INEC releases the definitive register for conducting elections.