Coalition Warns of ‘Deepfake’ Plot to Destabilise 2027 Polls

Written by Folarin Adeyemi Aluko

A civil society group, the Coalition for Ethical Technology and Democratic Integrity (CETDI), has raised concerns over the growing use of artificial intelligence to spread disinformation and potentially destabilise Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the group’s convener, Abdullahi Haruna Haruspice, warned that advanced “deepfake” technology is being deployed by both local and foreign actors to target prominent political figures.

According to the coalition, individuals allegedly being targeted include President Bola Tinubu, his son Seyi Tinubu, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and other key government and opposition figures.

Haruspice described the development as a serious threat to democratic stability, noting that AI-generated videos and audio clips are now so realistic that many citizens may find it difficult to distinguish between authentic and manipulated content.

“What was once considered science fiction has now become a real and immediate danger,” he said, warning that such materials are being used to mislead the public, damage reputations, and potentially incite political unrest.

The group stressed that the rise of deepfake technology could significantly influence public opinion and voter behaviour if left unchecked, especially as the country approaches a critical election cycle.

CETDI urged the Federal Government to treat the issue as a national security concern rather than dismissing it as harmless online activity. It called for urgent legislative action to criminalise the creation and distribution of malicious deepfake content.

The coalition also recommended increased investment in AI detection tools and a nationwide public awareness campaign to educate citizens on verifying digital content before sharing.

Observers say the warning highlights the growing intersection between technology and politics in Nigeria, where misinformation and digital manipulation could play a decisive role in shaping electoral outcomes.

As preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace, experts believe that addressing the risks posed by emerging technologies will be crucial to safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.