By Clement Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and election experts have called for clear regulatory frameworks, effective oversight and accountability mechanisms to guide the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The call was made during a plenary session on the second day of the AI and Democracy Forum 2026, which examined how Nigeria could govern emerging AI technologies while safeguarding electoral integrity and public trust.
INEC disclosed this in a statement published on its official X handle on Thursday.
The session, titled “Governing AI in Nigeria’s 2027 Elections: Safeguards, Accountability, and Electoral Integrity,” focused on the need to establish clear rules, define institutional responsibilities and introduce effective risk assessment mechanisms to ensure the responsible application of AI in the electoral process.
The discussion was moderated by Geoffrey Uzono of Channels Television and featured former INEC National Commissioner, Prof. Okechukwu Ibeanu; Dr. Lisa Poggiali of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES); Cynthia Mbamalu of Yiaga Africa; and Sani Suleiman of Paradigm Initiative.
The participants examined the potential risks associated with AI in elections and stressed the importance of establishing clear standards and robust oversight to prevent the misuse of emerging technologies.
They emphasised that AI should support electoral credibility rather than undermine the integrity of the voting process or erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
The discussions also highlighted the need for institutional accountability and collaboration among electoral stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
According to INEC, the conversations reinforced the importance of responsible technology governance and sustained cooperation to protect the electoral process and strengthen public trust.
The AI and Democracy Forum 2026 brings together stakeholders to deliberate on the implications of artificial intelligence for democratic governance and electoral processes, particularly as Nigeria approaches another general election cycle.
The forum’s deliberations come amid growing concerns about the potential use of AI-generated content, disinformation and other emerging technologies to manipulate public opinion and influence electoral outcomes.
The emphasis on safeguards and accountability reflects the need for Nigeria’s electoral institutions and other stakeholders to prepare for technology-related challenges that could affect the credibility of the 2027 elections.
