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Bayo Onanuga

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has urged politicians, media organisations and members of the public to exercise caution in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning that its misuse could undermine democratic institutions and public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Onanuga said the growing deployment of AI-generated videos, images and other digital content in political communication had created new challenges for electoral integrity, particularly as political activities and campaigns gather momentum across the country.

He made the call on Thursday in Beijing, China, while delivering a paper titled, “AI and the Future of Global Communication”, at the 7th World Media Summit organised by Xinhua News Agency and the People’s Government of Beijing Municipality.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye, the presidential aide warned that AI had become a powerful instrument in electoral contests, with political actors and their supporters deploying the technology for different purposes.

He observed that social media platforms, including X, Facebook and TikTok, were increasingly flooded with AI-generated images and videos designed to promote political interests, entertain audiences and influence public conversations.

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Onanuga explained that while some political supporters use the technology to highlight candidates’ achievements, others deploy it to spread false information or create satirical content.

He said the growing influence of AI in political communication required greater responsibility from content creators and those who distribute information online.

“We are in the thick of the political season and campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, where new political leaders at the national and sub-national levels will be elected,” he said.

The presidential spokesman acknowledged the significant contributions of AI to human development, particularly in medicine, mathematics, transportation and other areas of scientific innovation.

He noted that the technology had become an integral part of everyday life, assisting people with navigation, safety and other essential activities.

However, he maintained that its benefits should not overshadow the dangers associated with irresponsible deployment, particularly in democratic societies.

Onanuga expressed optimism that governments, scientists, individuals and international institutions, including the United Nations, were increasingly recognising the need for appropriate safeguards.

He called for urgent global action to establish regulations and protective measures capable of preventing the technology from becoming a threat to humanity.

“The world must act before it becomes too late. Build guardrails quickly to save humanity,” he added.

His warning comes as Nigeria approaches another election cycle, with concerns over misinformation, manipulated digital content and the potential influence of emerging technologies on political participation and public opinion.

Ihesiulo Grace Amarachi is a Nigerian journalist, writer and media professional serving as the Editor-in-Chief of TheTraffic.NG, a digital news platform covering national and international affairs. Her editorial interests span politics, business, aviation, health, technology, entertainment, sports and social development. She is committed to credible journalism, insightful reporting and compelling storytelling that informs public discourse and keeps readers abreast of important developments in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.