Florence Ajimobi denies viral 2027 election video, says it’s AI-generated

Florence Ajimobi denies viral 2027 election video, says it’s AI-generated

Former First Lady of Oyo State, Dr. (Mrs.) Florence Ajimobi, has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media, describing it as a fabricated deepfake aimed at misleading the public about her position on the 2027 governorship election.

In a statement issued by her office on Saturday, Dr. Ajimobi said the video, which allegedly shows her making controversial remarks about the current Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led administration in the state, was never recorded by her.

“The remarks in the video were never made by me. This content is entirely fabricated and designed to mislead the public and create confusion ahead of the 2027 elections,” the statement read.

According to the statement, digital forensic experts who reviewed the footage have confirmed that it was generated using artificial intelligence, with manipulated lip movements and cloned voice patterns intended to imitate the former First Lady.

Dr. Ajimobi warned that the incident represents a dangerous trend in the use of artificial intelligence as a political weapon, especially as the country moves closer to another election cycle.

She noted that the circulation of synthetic videos could distort public perception, incite unnecessary tension, and undermine democratic values.

“The weaponisation of artificial intelligence in politics is a serious threat to democratic discourse. When false information is presented as reality, it weakens public trust and threatens national stability,” she said.

The former First Lady urged media organisations, security agencies, and members of the public to exercise caution and verify information before sharing political content online.

She stressed that the rapid spread of unverified digital material poses serious risks to political transparency and accountability.

Florence Ajimobi

“Everyone has a responsibility to verify sources and authenticate information. The careless sharing of manipulated content only helps those who seek to destabilise society,” she added.

Dr. Ajimobi stressed her commitment to truth, fairness, and democratic principles, stating that she has always upheld integrity in public life.

She further disclosed that her office is considering legal action against individuals and groups involved in creating and distributing the fake video.

“We reserve the right to pursue all legal remedies available to us against those responsible for this fraudulent and malicious content,” the statement said.

She called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to peaceful, issue-based political engagement.

There have been growing concerns about the misuse of digital technology in Nigeria’s political space, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.

In recent years, security experts and civil society groups have repeatedly warned about the dangers of disinformation, fake news, and digitally manipulated content in influencing public opinion.

Credit – Guardian