Prof Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, declared on Monday that artificial intelligence is not an enemy of democracy. He spoke at the Beyond The Ballot Summit in Abuja.
The chairman explained that election management bodies worldwide already use AI machinery. He noted that the technology assists in handling large voter registries, refining logistics and planning, streamlining data analysis and improving administrative efficiency.
Prof Joash Amupitan stated that AI supports core electoral tasks. He said these processes help election bodies manage complex operations more effectively. Meanwhile, he stressed that the technology remains a tool for better administration rather than a replacement for human oversight.
However, the chairman warned about new dangers. He said the rapid spread of generative AI models has lowered the barrier for malicious actors. Capabilities once limited to sophisticated intelligence resources are now available at low cost.
Prof Joash Amupitan said, “Artificial Intelligence, AI, is not an enemy of democracy. Within election management bodies worldwide, machinery process assists in duplicating large voters registries, refining logistics, planning, streamlining data analysis, and improving administrative efficiency. However, the rabid democratization of generative AI models has dramatically lowered the barrier to entry for malicious actors.”
“Capabilities that previously required sophisticated intelligence resources, such as high quality voice cloning of public figures and hyper realistic synthesis of election officials making false announcements, are now accessible at negligible cost. These tools target specific vulnerabilities with distinct timelines.”
The remarks came as INEC prepares for the 2027 general elections. Officials have discussed integrating AI into the electoral system. At the same time, the chairman highlighted the need to address risks such as deepfakes and false announcements that could undermine public trust.
Prof Joash Amupitan emphasised that responsible use of the technology can strengthen electoral processes. He noted that global practices already demonstrate its value in administrative efficiency while calling attention to emerging threats that require careful management.
