By lGabriel Ameh
The Independent National Electoral Commission (Independent National Electoral Commission) has launched an investigation into alleged unauthorised access to its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) database following reports of leaked information linked to a political party primary election in the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement released on Tuesday by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Commission said it became aware of the incident through reports circulating on social media and in sections of the press.
INEC stated that it immediately began a detailed internal probe to determine how the information was accessed and whether internal systems were compromised.
According to the Commission, authorised Registration Officers were granted restricted access to specific parts of the CVR system strictly for voter registration, transfers, and updates during the ongoing nationwide exercise. It stressed that such access is temporary and withdrawn once official duties are completed.
Preliminary findings from INEC’s audit reportedly identified the specific user account involved in accessing the disputed voter record. The Commission said relevant personnel have been questioned, while all involved units are cooperating fully with investigators.
INEC clarified that early technical findings show no evidence of external intrusion, hacking, or compromise of its broader ICT infrastructure. It explained that the information was accessed using valid login credentials assigned to authorised staff but was allegedly disclosed without approval.
The Commission further noted that the incident involved only a single voter record and did not affect the wider database containing information on over 90 million registered voters.
While reaffirming its commitment to data protection and electoral integrity, INEC said it is reviewing technical, administrative, and operational procedures to determine responsibility and prevent future breaches.
The Department of State Services (Department of State Services) has also reportedly opened an independent investigation into the matter.
INEC assured that anyone found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary and legal action, and urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue.
The Commission promised to provide further updates once inquiries are concluded.
