Nigeria's Data Protection Commission Probes INEC Over Emeka Ike's Voter Data Leak

Nigeria's Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched an investigation into an alleged leak of voter information concerning Nollywood actor and politician Emeka Ike. The commission confirmed it has engaged both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Ike as part of its probe.

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, stated that the matter is being treated with urgency due to its significant implications for electoral integrity and public trust. This investigation arises from recent controversy surrounding the publication of details from Ike's voter registration record.

The information was reportedly shared by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Olayinka posted screenshots that appeared to contain Ike's voter information obtained from INEC's administrative portal, including his application number, registration center, Voter Identification Number, profile picture, and name. Olayinka questioned Ike's eligibility to contest for a House of Representatives seat in Abuja, given his voter registration history.

The publication sparked concerns about unauthorized access to INEC's database and renewed debate on personal data protection ahead of future elections. INEC, however, has denied a major breach, attributing the incident to the misuse of internal credentials by authorized personnel rather than a cyberattack. Investigators have reportedly questioned Olayinka and an electoral officer regarding the alleged leak.

“

Emeka Ike is downstairs now. INEC, they were here last week, and they were here this week again.