The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project(SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to promptly, thoroughly, independently and effectively investigate the reported introduction of suspected artificial intelligence (AI)-generated photographs, alleged alterations to personal data and other questionable records in the preliminary Register of Voters published by the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC).
In a letter addressed to the President, SERAP said that its request followed INEC’s publication of the preliminary Register of Voters and its subsequent acknowledgement of suspected AI-generated photographs and questionable registration records identified during the nationwide display of the register from 9 to 15 October 2026.
The letter urged him to ensure that the NDPC establishes the nature and extent of the reported irregularities, determines whether any personal data breach has occurred under the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, identifies those responsible, and ensures that affected Nigerians can verify and correct their records without being unfairly excluded from the electoral process.
It stated that the reported irregularities raise serious concerns about the security and integrity of Nigerians’ personal data and the reliability of the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Accorsing to the letter, the security and accuracy of the voter register are fundamental to the protection of Nigerians’ personal data and their right to participate in public affairs. Nigerians should not have to worry that their personal information could be altered, manipulated or accessed without proper safeguards.
It pointed out that INEC’s acknowledgement of questionable records and suspected AI-generated photographs makes an independent investigation particularly important.
“The public needs to know what happened, whether the law was breached and what measures are being taken to prevent a recurrence”, it stated.
