Elections 2027: How to Spot Fake Election News and Stay Safe

Election season brings a flood of fake results, edited videos and false “INEC announcements” on WhatsApp and social media. Sharing them can cause panic or even violence. Here is how to check what you see, and how to stay safe on election days.

🔍 Check before you share

1. Find the sourceWho posted it first? Official INEC information comes from INEC’s own website and verified accounts.
2. Check results on IReVPolling unit results are uploaded to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV). Final results are declared only by INEC officials.
3. Search the claimFact-checkers such as Dubawa, FactCheckHub and Africa Check often check viral election claims quickly.
4. Look closelyOld videos, edited screenshots and fake logos are common. Look for dates, places and spelling mistakes.
5. When in doubt, don’t forwardNot sharing is always safe.

🚩 Red flags

• “Results” before counting has finished.
• Messages that say “forward to 10 people”.
• Claims that only one side’s supporters are being attacked, with no names or places.
• Links that ask you to “confirm your PVC” or pay money.

🛡️ Staying safe on election days

• Vote, then go home or stay calmly at a distance if you want to watch the count.
• Avoid crowds that are getting angry; leave early if tension rises.
• Keep your phone charged and save emergency numbers (112 works on all networks in many states).
• Report threats or violence to the police and INEC officials at the polling unit.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see real election results?

On INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV) for polling unit result sheets, and from INEC’s official declarations.

How do I know if election news is fake?

Check who posted it first, look for the same claim on INEC’s official channels and trusted news outlets, and search fact-checkers like Dubawa or Africa Check.

Is it a crime to share fake election results?

Spreading false information can be an offence under Nigerian law, and it can endanger lives. Only share verified information.

What should I do if there is violence at my polling unit?

Move away to a safe place, then report it to the security officials or call emergency services.

Written by the askJBoss team from public information and our own research; last updated November 2026. Prices, dates and rules change — always confirm with the official source. Spotted something that has changed? Tell us in the comments.