Utomi faults INEC over alleged AI photos, duplicate entries in voters’ register

Political economist Pat Utomi has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over allegations that its preliminary register of voters contains AI-generated photographs and duplicate entries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The criticism follows the publication of the preliminary voters’ register online on Monday, which triggered reactions on social media, with users questioning the accuracy of the data and demanding clarification from the electoral body.

Some social media users alleged that the register contained AI-generated photographs, duplicated voter profiles and multiple entries with similar identification details, raising concerns about the verification process used to compile the register.

Reacting to the controversy in a post on his verified X handle on Tuesday, Utomi said the allegations raised serious questions about INEC’s verification procedures, transparency and accountability.

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“INEC cannot afford to be careless with the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process. The presence of AI-generated images in a register meant to support our democracy raises serious questions about verification, transparency and accountability. Our democracy is at stake here!” he wrote.

The allegations have renewed public scrutiny of the electoral commission’s preparations for the 2027 elections, particularly the processes used to compile and verify voter information.

However, the claims circulating online have not been independently established. The presence of photographs suspected to be AI-generated or similar voter details does not, on its own, confirm that the register contains fraudulent entries.

INEC’s response would be crucial in clarifying the concerns, explaining its verification procedures and determining whether any errors or irregularities occurred during the compilation of the preliminary register.

The controversy also comes amid growing attention to the potential role of artificial intelligence in election administration, including its use in detecting discrepancies, strengthening cybersecurity and tackling disinformation.

As of the time of filing this report, no official response from INEC to the specific allegations was included in the information available.