INEC Probes Alleged Unauthorised Access to Voter Registration Database

ABUJA — The Independent National Electoral Commission has launched a formal investigation into reports of alleged unauthorised access to its voter registration database. The Nigerian Observer confirmed the probe on Wednesday. INEC said it takes the integrity of its electoral data infrastructure extremely seriously.

The commission said it became aware of the alleged access after its internal security monitoring systems flagged unusual activity. Cybersecurity experts were immediately engaged to assess the scope of any breach and determine what, if any, data was accessed or compromised.

INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan said the commission will not allow any threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral processes to go uninvestigated. He said the voter register is one of Nigeria’s most important democratic assets and must be protected with the highest standards of cybersecurity.

Electoral Cyber Threat

The alleged database access comes at a particularly sensitive time. Nigeria is 19 months away from the January 2027 presidential election. Any compromise of the voter register could affect the eligibility verification processes that underpin the credibility of the election.

Cybersecurity experts said electoral systems globally are increasingly targeted by state and non-state actors seeking to undermine democratic processes. Nigeria, with its high-stakes 2027 election and significant political tensions, is a natural target for such interference.

INEC said it has informed relevant security agencies including the DSS and the police about the alleged breach. It said the investigation is ongoing and that it will publish findings when the review is complete. The commission urged all Nigerians to ignore speculation on social media about the scope of the alleged breach until official findings are released.