Legal expert warns INEC over weak AI safeguards and digital platform accountability ahead of Nigeria's 2027 elections.
Legal practitioner Olumide Babalola has issued a strong warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission regarding Nigeria's upcoming electoral process, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja at the AI and Democracy Forum organized by Yiaga Africa, Babalola stressed that unregulated artificial intelligence and opaque digital platforms could severely undermine public confidence in the polls.
The expert called for comprehensive security testing, transparent political advertising, and strict accountability measures for technology companies before voting begins in 2027, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
AI threats to Nigeria electoral integrity
Babalola highlighted that digital platforms now exert a massive influence on electoral choices, going far beyond basic voter education. He warned that algorithms dictate what users see, creating invisible manipulation through targeted narratives.
The growing sophistication of synthetic media means fabricated content increasingly appears authentic. Voters struggle to distinguish genuine information from deliberate manipulation designed to influence their perceptions and final voting decisions.
Platform accountability and security testing
To prevent systemic failures similar to those seen during previous election cycles, the legal expert urged stakeholders to examine the security of technology systems. He recommended thorough vulnerability assessments and penetration testing for INEC portals.
Furthermore, Babalola demanded that INEC publish a comprehensive list of technology vendors and digital platforms playing key roles in the 2027 polls, alongside accountability reports detailing any disruptions and remedial actions taken.
Data protection and transparent political advertising
The expert underscored the critical need for robust data protection, pointing out that personal information from telephone numbers and national IDs could be exploited. Regulators must investigate unauthorized data exposure to safeguard election integrity.
Additionally, he advocated for strict transparency in political advertising. Voters must easily identify who sponsors specific campaign messages and understand how their personal information was acquired by political actors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who warned INEC about AI election manipulation?
Legal practitioner Olumide Babalola warned the Independent National Electoral Commission about weak safeguards against artificial intelligence during a masterclass session organized by Yiaga Africa in Abuja.What are the main digital threats to the 2027 elections?
The primary threats include AI-generated synthetic media, deceptive information, voter-data breaches, opaque content moderation, and coordinated digital manipulation designed to influence voter perceptions.
What did Babalola recommend for INEC and tech platforms?
He recommended comprehensive security testing for INEC portals, public disclosure of technology vendors, transparency in political advertising, and detailed post-election accountability reports.
