INEC Probes AI-Generated Images in Preliminary Voters Register

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says it is investigating reports of suspected Artificial Intelligence-generated photographs found in the preliminary register of voters published on its website.

The Commission said it has also flagged questionable registration records discovered during physical display of the register.

INEC disclosed this on Tuesday night in a statement by its Information and Voter Education Committee Chairman, Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

Haruna said INEC noted public concerns and social media reports over alleged AI-generated images appearing in the preliminary register recently uploaded online.

Clarifying the status of the document, INEC said the register published online on October 26, 2026 is the same preliminary register displayed physically at Registration Areas nationwide from October 9 to 15, 2026 during the Display, Claims and Objections exercise.

It said questionable records were already identified during that exercise and flagged for further examination.

“During the physical display, a number of questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination. The Commission commenced the process of reviewing these records and taking appropriate corrective action in accordance with established procedures,” INEC said.

According to the Commission, the online publication is the original preliminary register and does not reflect ongoing data-cleanup activities.

INEC stressed that the preliminary register is not final and is specifically meant to allow public scrutiny to identify inaccuracies and irregularities before certification.

On the controversial photographs, the Commission said it is probing the circumstances of their inclusion.

“The Commission is also examining the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs, including possible technical or procedural lapses, and will take appropriate action based on verified findings,” it said.

INEC thanked Nigerians who flagged the concerns, saying such vigilance contributes to improving accuracy and integrity of the register.

It assured that verified irregularities will be addressed through applicable procedures ahead of certification of final Register of Voters scheduled for December 15, 2026.