INEC Official Detained Over Voter Data Leak Investigation

The police detained an official from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and questioned Lere Olayinka, a senior special assistant to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, regarding an alleged unauthorized release of voter registration records. The investigation was triggered by a petition alleging cyber-related offenses and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential documents.

The incident began on May 29, 2026, when protests occurred at the INEC office in Abuja Municipal Area Council over alleged irregularities in ongoing primary elections. During the protests, Emeka Ik, a popular Nollywood actor, was identified as a key figure.

He had initiated a voter registration transfer to Imo State, which had not been officially approved. Olayinka admitted to posting a video of the protest on social media and later contacted the INEC office to complain about perceived unfair treatment.

The investigation revealed that confidential voter registration documents were leaked, leading to public controversy. Olayinka was granted administrative bail but declined to comment further on the matter.