The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to investigate suspected artificial intelligence-generated photographs and alleged alterations to personal information in the preliminary register of voters published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a letter to the President, SERAP called for a prompt and independent investigation to establish the nature and extent of the reported irregularities, determine whether any personal data had been unlawfully accessed or altered, and identify those responsible.
The organisation’s request follows concerns raised during INEC’s nationwide display of the preliminary voter register between October 9 and 15, 2026.
The Guardian Nigeria reported on SERAP’s demand on November 2, noting that the organisation wants the data protection regulator to establish whether the incidents amount to breaches of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.
INEC Acknowledges Questionable Registration Records
The controversy followed INEC’s acknowledgement of public concerns about suspected AI-generated photographs appearing in the preliminary register published on its website.
The commission also said questionable registration records had been identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display of the register nationwide.
In a statement issued on October 27, INEC said it had commenced a review and was taking corrective action while examining possible technical or procedural lapses that could have contributed to the irregularities.
However, SERAP argued that an internal review by the electoral commission should not replace an independent investigation by the NDPC, given the regulator’s responsibility for protecting personal data.
Channels Television’s report on the matter said SERAP wants the regulator to determine whether personal information was unlawfully altered or accessed and whether the incidents constitute a breach of the data protection law.
Data Protection and Electoral Integrity Concerns
SERAP said the reported irregularities raise concerns about the security of Nigerians’ personal information and the reliability of the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation called for an independent forensic examination of the affected database and systems, as well as measures to ensure that eligible voters can verify and correct their records without being unfairly excluded.
It also cited provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which require personal data to be processed accurately and securely and provide for the investigation of personal data breaches.
The organisation requested that the findings of any investigation be made public, subject to lawful privacy protections, and that appropriate action be taken if violations are established.
The allegations have not yet been established as confirmed cases of electoral fraud or a proven data breach. INEC has said it is reviewing the questionable records and undertaking corrective measures.
The issue comes as preparations continue for the 2027 general elections, making the accuracy and security of the voter register an important part of public confidence in the electoral process.
