INEC Chairman Calls For Stronger Legal Reforms To Protect Democracy In Digital Age

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), on Tuesday called for a proactive legal framework to address digital threats such as misinformation, data breaches, and AI manipulation that challenge Nigeria’s democratic resilience.

Amupitan made the call while speaking at the 47th Founders’ Day Lecture organised by the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) held at the Ayo Ajomo Auditorium, University of Lagos.

Reviewing the lecture’s theme, “Civic Participation, Rule of Law and Accountable Governance in a Digital Era,” the INEC Chairman warned that technological progress must be matched by regulation.

He said, “From digital platforms amplifying citizens’ voices to tools promoting transparency, technology offers significant opportunities; however, issues like misinformation and digital manipulation demand effective laws.

“From digital platforms that amplify citizens’ voices to tools that enhance transparency, technology is creating vast opportunities for participation and accountability.”

“The digital space is not without challenges as we are faced with misinformation, digital manipulation, data breaches and concerns around artificial intelligence.

“These developments test the resilience of our legal system,” he stated.

Amupitan also highlighted the importance of cooperation among legal scholars, policymakers, technologists, and civil society to develop inclusive governance.

The Keynote speaker, Theodore Maiyaki (SAN), described the digital era as a “paradox of opportunity and danger.”

He pointed out how algorithms and online campaigns reshape civic engagement—from hashtags to virtual communities—but also pose risks of manipulation without safeguards.

“Technology can strengthen or weaken democracy; empower or dominate citizens. Purposeful safeguards are a necessity,” Maiyaki said.

The senior lawyer also criticised declining elite engagement in party activities, judicial delays, and selective anti-corruption measures, calling for stronger data protection, cybersecurity, and transparent AI practices.