Broadcaster and political commentator, Rufai Oseni, has called for an independent forensic audit of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), questioning the integrity of the electoral body following allegations that a political aide accessed voter registration data belonging to Nollywood actor Emeka Ike.
Speaking on the controversy, Oseni said Nigerians should not simply accept INEC’s explanation of the incident, insisting that the electoral commission must subject itself to an independent investigation to restore public confidence.
“We’re not going to buy that INEC’s report. What we’re asking is that the INEC chairman should submit himself to an independent forensic audit because INEC as an institution is tainted,” Oseni said.
He expressed concern over claims that an ordinary political aide was allegedly able to access sensitive voter information, warning that the development raises serious questions about the security of the electoral database.
According to him, if a political aide could allegedly obtain such information, Nigerians could only imagine the level of access available to powerful politicians and other actors with greater influence.
The controversy follows widespread public debate over reports that voter registration details linked to Emeka Ike were shared online, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability from INEC regarding the security of its systems.
Oseni maintained that only an independent forensic examination of INEC’s digital infrastructure would help determine whether the electoral body’s database had been compromised and reassure Nigerians ahead of future elections.
