The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has moved to allay fears that the 2027 general elections might be decided by artificial intelligence (AI). In a statement issued on Tuesday, the electoral body insisted that the future elections will be decided by Nigerians, not algorithms. According to the Commission, the use of AI in election management would remain an aid to human decision-making, not a replacement. The assurance comes amidst increasing concerns about the potential impact of technology on electoral processes, especially in light of the growing use of technology in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. The Commission’s stance on the matter is significant, given that the use of AI in decision-making processes has been a subject of debate in recent times, with some advocating for its integration while others express concerns about its potential for manipulation. For Nigerians, the assurance provides a degree of comfort, as the 2027 elections will mark the first general elections since the introduction of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and the implementation of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). These initiatives, aimed at enhancing the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, have been met with mixed reactions. While some have lauded the measures as necessary steps towards a more credible electoral system, others have raised concerns about the potential for voter suppression and manipulation. With the 2027 elections just over four years away, the electoral commission’s stance is a welcome development, as it underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and credible electoral process. Source: Punch Newspapers
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