INEC traces source of Emeka Ike’s voter data leak, DSS launches investigation

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that it has identified the user account through which the voter registration details of actor and politician Emeka Ike were accessed and subsequently circulated online, as investigations into the data disclosure continue.

In a statement addressing concerns over the incident, the electoral body said its internal audit mechanisms successfully traced the access to a specific user account operating within the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) system.

INEC explained that the discovery was made through its audit trail process, which records activities carried out on the voter registration platform and enables the commission to monitor access to sensitive electoral data.

The commission disclosed that the Department of State Services (DSS) has commenced a formal investigation into the matter to determine the circumstances surrounding the unauthorised disclosure and identify those responsible.

While acknowledging public concerns over the exposure of personal voter information, INEC insisted that there was no external compromise or cyberattack on its database. The commission maintained that its systems remain secure and that access to the CVR platform is limited strictly to authorised personnel.

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According to INEC, preliminary findings indicate that the incident did not result from a breach by external actors but involved access through a recognised user account within its voter registration infrastructure.

The electoral body reassured Nigerians that measures are in place to safeguard voter information and protect the integrity of its databases. It added that security protocols governing access to electoral records continue to be reviewed and strengthened to prevent similar occurrences.

INEC further stated that it is cooperating fully with security agencies handling the investigation and pledged to provide updates to the public as more details emerge.

The commission emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability and the protection of citizens’ personal information, noting that any individual found culpable in the unauthorised disclosure of voter data would be held accountable in accordance with the law.

The incident has generated widespread attention due to concerns about data privacy and the security of voter information, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and stronger safeguards for sensitive personal records held by public institutions.