The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the leak of actor Emeka Ike's voter registration data, which was circulated on social media after being shared by Lere Olayinka, the media aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The Commission confirmed that the Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated a separate independent investigation into the matter. Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), assured the public that INEC will maintain full cooperation with all relevant security agencies throughout the process.
Preliminary Findings Show No External Breach
Haruna stated that the Commission will not hesitate to refer any individual found culpable to appropriate legal action. This was disclosed in a statement issued via INEC's official X handle on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
According to the INEC official: "The audit trail from the preliminary investigation has enabled the Commission to identify the user account through which the information was accessed. Accordingly, relevant personnel have been questioned, and all units connected with the incident are cooperating fully with the investigation."
The statement further revealed: "Preliminary findings from the Commission's audit trail so far indicate that there was no external breach of the CVR database, no hacking incident, and no unauthorised external access to the Commission's ICT infrastructure. Rather, the information in question was accessed through valid user credentials assigned to personnel participating in the ongoing CVR exercise but released without authority."
Haruna urged members of the public and the media to disregard unfounded speculations while investigations remain ongoing.
Public Reactions Highlight Concerns
Social media users expressed mixed reactions to the development. @Livinstone88 commented: "Unfounded speculations, you say? You're compromised, and you've shown your hand already." @kennethudenkwe1 added: "Stories that touch the heart. What's needed is an independent audit. This internal sabotage will even increase as we get closer to elections."
@Cjameswave demanded: "Mr. Lere should be picked up and placed in DSS custody, then we can understand what you are saying." @franknduka0 expressed fear: "I'm scared that my personal data with you could be in the wrong hands." @nonsoinnocent4 noted: "If it was ordinary citizen, they would pick him up." @ColePalmer_CFC7 questioned: "We know you have to investigate, but there was an actual culprit and suspect, and he's supposed to be in custody as the investigation is ongoing. Or is the law only for the poor?"
Emeka Ike Threatens Legal Action
Recall that actor Emeka Ike reacted strongly after his personal INEC voter details were allegedly exposed online. The Nollywood star described the development as "political rascality" and a serious breach of privacy. He insisted he is prepared to take legal steps against the FCT Minister's aide involved in the disclosure.
INEC Challenges Court Ruling on 2027 Election Timetable
Meanwhile, Legit.ng also reported that INEC challenged a court ruling voiding its timetable for party primaries ahead of the 2027 elections. The Federal High Court ruled that INEC lacks authority to dictate political party nomination timelines. The legal battle continues as INEC files an appeal amidst uncertainty for upcoming election preparations.
