2027: INEC sets safeguards against foreign information manipulation and deepfakes

Nigeria’s electoral commission, INEC, is preparing safeguards against foreign information manipulation and AI-generated deepfakes ahead of the 2027 general elections. Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan warned in Abuja that political parties and their supporters have spread false information against rivals since campaigning began in August 2026. He raised concerns that fake audio or video announcing a postponement could be circulated on the eve of the vote, when media verification and candidates’ response windows are limited. INEC’s priorities include teaching voters how to verify information, strengthening technological protections and responding in real time.