The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) have launched investigations into an alleged voter data leak, amid growing concerns over the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development follows alarm raised by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who called for a transparent probe after personal voter information surfaced online under controversial circumstances.

INEC, in an official statement, confirmed that the incident involved an “unauthorised release” of data accessed through legitimate user credentials assigned to officials participating in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

The commission, however, dismissed claims of an external cyberattack, noting that its digital infrastructure had not been compromised.

According to the electoral body, preliminary findings indicate that the breach was traced to a specific account, with individuals linked to the access already undergoing questioning.

INEC emphasised that the case appeared isolated, involving a single voter record, and assured Nigerians that the broader database of over 90 million registered voters remains secure.

The DSS has also commenced a parallel investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the leak, with INEC pledging full cooperation with security agencies.

Reacting, Atiku described the situation as troubling, particularly because the absence of hacking suggests possible internal compromise.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, the former presidential candidate questioned how sensitive voter information could be accessed and circulated without detection.

He further warned that the incident could erode public trust in the electoral process if not thoroughly addressed, stressing the need for accountability and institutional transparency.

The controversy is linked to the online circulation of voter details belonging to Nollywood actor and politician Emeka Ike, which has sparked outrage and raised privacy concerns.

Ike has since threatened legal action, describing the disclosure as a violation of his rights. Political tensions have also intensified around the issue, with Atiku suggesting that the timing of the leak, alongside recent political remarks by allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, could undermine confidence in the neutrality of electoral institutions.

The former vice president has called on INEC to publish a full report detailing how the data was accessed, handled, and eventually leaked, while urging the DSS to ensure its investigation remains impartial.

As inquiries continue, stakeholders say the outcome of the probe will be critical in shaping public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the next general elections.