Nigeria considers AI deployment for 2027 elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has indicated it may deploy artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and authenticate results for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. This potential integration has sparked debate regarding whether technology will safeguard the democratic process or provide new tools for manipulation.

During a recent AI and Democracy Forum in Abuja, organizations including YiagaAfrica, INEC, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, and the Dataphyte Foundation discussed the risks of AI. Concerns include the use of fabricated videos and false voice messages to mislead voters about polling details or candidate conduct, which can distort elections without altering physical ballots.

Critics and observers express skepticism rooted in historical distrust of electoral institutions. There are fears that AI could be sabotaged by officials or used to mask existing abuses such as vote-buying and intimidation. The discussion emphasizes the need for transparency to ensure technology serves to protect voter choice rather than undermining it, especially following past issues with the INEC results viewing (IREV) portal.