The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is working to correct irregularities detected in the preliminary voters’ register, following concerns over suspicious photographs and other discrepancies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Commission’s Commissioner for Voter Education and Publicity, Muhammad Kudu Haruna, says an investigation has begun to establish how the anomalies occurred, identify anyone responsible if wrongdoing is confirmed, and ensure that affected records are corrected.

Haruna said the process was still at an early stage and that INEC had not determined whether any of its officials were involved. He assured Nigerians that the investigation would be conducted with due diligence before the register is finalised.

The controversy followed the online publication of the preliminary register on October 26, 2026. Screenshots showing questionable photographs attached to voter records in Ward 11, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, subsequently circulated on social media, prompting concerns about the reliability of the document.

INEC says the online version was the same preliminary register physically displayed across Registration Areas between October 9 and 15 under the Display, Claims and Objections exercise. The exercise allows eligible voters to inspect their details, report errors and submit objections before the register is certified.

Political parties, opposition figures and civil society organisations, including the Nigeria Democratic Congress and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, have called for a transparent investigation and accountability for anyone found responsible. Their concerns have centred on the need to protect the credibility of the voters’ register before the next general election.

INEC says the investigation will form part of efforts to produce an accurate register, with copies of the final document scheduled to be made available to political parties on December 15, 2026. Until then, the Commission’s correction process remains a key step in addressing the concerns raised over the preliminary records.