Amupitan: INEC to deploy AI for result verification, cybersecurity in 2027

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, says the commission will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to verify election results and strengthen cybersecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Amupitan disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at a press conference and national stakeholders’ meeting held ahead of the elections.

He said INEC had established a dedicated AI division within its information and communication technology (ICT) department.

According to him, automated AI auditing tools had also been integrated into the commission’s result verification process under a five-pillar AI governance framework.

He added that the use of AI would be subjected to mandatory human oversight.

“An AI governance framework policy is being finalised by the commission,” Amupitan said.

The INEC chairman said the commission was working with international technology leaders and partners to integrate AI-driven anomaly detection tools into its systems.

He said the tools would be used to monitor database traffic and protect the commission’s systems against cyber intrusions and unauthorised alterations.

Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, INEC had assured Nigerians that polling unit results would be uploaded to its viewing portal, IReV, an online platform that allows voters, political parties, candidates, observers and other stakeholders to independently view scanned copies of result sheets in real time.

However, during the presidential election, the portal remained inactive for an extended period, even after voting had concluded at many polling units, prompting suspicion among many Nigerians.

Amupitan said the commission was currently preparing for nationwide mock accreditation and public display, while its workforce was being systematically trained ahead of the elections.

He described the preparations as part of a “100-day sprint” towards the 2027 general election.

Amupitan assured Nigerians and the international community of the commission’s commitment to neutrality and the integrity of the electoral process.

He also expressed appreciation to development partners and security agencies for their support.

The INEC chairman said the commission would remain focused on its responsibilities throughout the elections and beyond.

“We reassure the nation and the international community of our total commitment to neutrality, operational excellence, and the sacred integrity of the ballot box,” he said.

“Let us work together to make the 2027 general election a moment of pride for our great nation.”