INEC Begins Cleanup of Voter Register Over AI-Generated Photos

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has started cleaning up its preliminary voter register. This action comes after officials found records that may contain AI-generated photos and other issues.

Lawrence Bayode, the Director of Information and Communication Technology at INEC, shared details during an interview on Channels Television. He mentioned that their Automated Biometric Identification System flagged 268 records for review due to suspected irregularities.

Bayode explained that some individuals misused official credentials to create false profiles. This included taking advantage of a special registration option meant for people with disabilities who may not have complete fingers. Such misuse was among the irregularities identified by the system.

He noted that while they will remove entirely AI-generated photos, not all enhanced images will be discarded. Photos improved by AI tools on personal devices will remain on the register, as these are not considered fraudulent.

The issue gained attention after INEC published its preliminary voter register online on October 26. Screenshots on social media showed questionable images linked to voter records, including duplicates and names of deceased individuals.

INEC clarified that the online register is the same as the one displayed physically across the country earlier this month. They emphasized that the publication does not represent the final version and that they are actively working to correct inaccuracies before the final register is certified on December 15, 2026.