The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed growing public concern over suspected AI-generated photographs appearing in the Preliminary Register of Voters published on its website, clarifying that the online version represents the original preliminary register and does not reflect ongoing data-cleanup activities.
In a press statement issued on 27 October 2026 and signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), the Commission confirmed that the register published online on 26 October 2026 is the same preliminary register physically displayed at Registration Areas (RAs) nationwide from 9 to 15 October 2026 as part of the Display, Claims and Objections exercise.
According to the statement, a number of questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display. The Commission said it had commenced reviewing these records and taking appropriate corrective action in accordance with established procedures.
“It is important to emphasize that the preliminary register is not the final certified register,” the statement read. “The Display, Claims and Objections exercise is specifically intended to facilitate public scrutiny, identify inaccuracies and irregularities, and enable appropriate corrections before certification.”
INEC further stated that it is examining the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs, including possible technical or procedural lapses, and will take appropriate action based on verified findings.
The Commission commended citizens and stakeholders for their vigilance in bringing the concerns to public attention, noting that such scrutiny contributes to improving the accuracy and integrity of the register.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to completing the necessary verification, adjudication, and data-cleanup processes ahead of the scheduled certification of the final Register of Voters on 15 December 2026.
“The Commission assures Nigerians that verified irregularities will be addressed through the applicable procedures and that further updates will be provided as the review progresses,” the statement added.
The clarification comes amid heightened public scrutiny of the voter registration process as the Commission prepares for the final certification of the register later this year.