INEC Investigates Unauthorized Access to Voter Data Linked to Politician Emeka Ike The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into allegations of unauthorized access and publication of voter registration details tied to Nollywood actor and politician Emeka Ike. The controversy erupted after Lere Olayinka, spokesperson for FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, shared screenshots on social media mocking Ike’s voter registration transfer from Imo State to the FCT on May 15. The images, allegedly sourced from INEC’s administrative portal, sparked concerns over a potential breach of the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) system. In a statement on Tuesday, INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna confirmed the probe, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. Preliminary findings indicate no external hacking or breach of the CVR database. Instead, the data was accessed using valid credentials assigned to personnel involved in the ongoing voter registration exercise but was released without authorization. The Commission’s audit trail has identified the specific user account involved, and relevant personnel are cooperating with investigators. INEC clarified that the incident involved a single voter record and does not suggest a broader compromise of its voter registration infrastructure or the personal data of over 90 million registered voters. The Commission is examining technical, administrative, and operational factors to determine individual responsibility and potential breaches of internal protocols. Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated an independent investigation, with INEC pledging full cooperation and legal action against any culpable parties. The controversy follows Ike’s declaration of interest in contesting the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency seat in the FCT under the Nigeria Democratic Congress. INEC has urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue.