The National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Head of Media Unit at the Commission, Mr Itunu Dosekun, at the 2026 Press Week organised by the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Delivering a goodwill message at the event themed, “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,” Mr Dosekun stated that safeguarding personal data has become critical to preserving democratic integrity in the digital age. According to him, elections are no longer influenced only by activities at polling units, but increasingly by information circulated online through social media platforms, messaging applications, and data-driven influence operations.

He noted that the misuse of personal data for political profiling, targeted propaganda, fake news, and AI-generated disinformation poses serious risks to democratic stability and public trust. He added that the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), provides a framework for protecting Nigerians against unlawful data processing and digital exploitation, stressing that citizens must retain control over how their personal information is collected and used.

He called on political actors, media organisations, technology companies, civil society groups, and citizens to work together to promote responsible digital practices ahead of the 2027 elections. He concluded by stating that protecting citizens’ data is not only a privacy issue, but also a democratic imperative.