The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said the preliminary register of voters on its website is the original record displayed nationwide earlier in October, responding to concerns over suspected AI-generated photographs found in the register.
The commission explained that the online register, published on October 26, 2026, is the same preliminary register that was physically displayed at Registration Areas (RAs) across the country from October 9 to 15. The display was part of the Display, Claims and Objections exercise.

Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, October 27. He said some questionable registration records were identified and flagged for further examination during the physical display.
The commission said it has commenced a review of the records and is taking appropriate corrective measures in line with established procedures.

According to INEC, the online publication reflects the original preliminary register and does not incorporate all ongoing data-cleaning activities. This means that corrections already under way are not yet visible in the version published on the website.
The commission stressed that the preliminary register is not the final certified register. It explained that the Display, Claims and Objections exercise was designed to enable public scrutiny, identify inaccuracies and irregularities, and facilitate necessary corrections before certification.

INEC also disclosed that it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspicious photographs, including possible technical or procedural lapses. It added that appropriate action will be taken based on verified findings.
The commission commended citizens and stakeholders who raised concerns about the AI-generated photos. It noted that public scrutiny would help improve the accuracy and integrity of the voter register.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to completing the necessary verification, adjudication and data-cleaning processes ahead of the scheduled certification of the final Register of Voters on December 15, 2026.
It assured Nigerians that verified irregularities would be addressed through the applicable procedures. The commission added that further updates would be provided as the review progresses.