INEC Warns of AI Misinformation Threat for 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning regarding the increasing threat posed by generative artificial intelligence (AI) to the credibility of the 2027 general elections. National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, made this statement in Abuja during a workshop for Public Affairs Officers (PAOs).

He highlighted that manipulated audio, video, and images, along with targeted messaging, have made the threat of misinformation a pressing issue. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, previously noted that electoral credibility now relies not only on physical voting materials but also on the information environment influencing voter perceptions.

The workshop, themed “Strengthening PAOs Capacity for Credible, Verified and Responsible Election Communication Towards 2027,” aims to equip PAOs with skills in verification and consistent messaging. Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, emphasized the ongoing nature of training for PAOs to enhance public confidence in INEC's communications.