INEC, TECHNOLOGY AND CREDIBLE ELECTIONS
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering the use of artificial intelligence (AI) ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, raising hopes that technology could improve electoral credibility while also introducing new risks.
The use of AI could support election preparations, data analysis and the identification of misleading information. However, concerns remain about the potential misuse of the technology to spread disinformation, manipulate public opinion and circulate fabricated images, videos or audio recordings.
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 polls, the responsible use of emerging technologies will be important in protecting voters’ access to reliable information.
Electoral experts and stakeholders have continued to emphasise the need for transparency, strong safeguards and public awareness to ensure that technological tools support rather than undermine the electoral process.
INEC’s use of AI would need clear guidelines, human oversight and effective measures to address errors and prevent misuse. Technology alone cannot guarantee credible elections without public trust, institutional accountability and compliance with electoral laws.
Further details on the specific AI tools INEC intends to deploy and how they would be used have not been provided in the information available.
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