The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative has warned that the growing use of artificial intelligence-powered deepfakes and digital disinformation could create fresh security challenges for Nigeria if urgent action is not taken.
The group said advances in AI technology are making it easier to create convincing fake videos, cloned voices and forged documents capable of misleading the public and eroding confidence in institutions.
Concerns Over AI-Generated Fake Content
In a statement issued by National Coordinator Samaila Musa, the organisation expressed concern over increasingly sophisticated disinformation campaigns.
According to the group, manipulated content is becoming harder for ordinary citizens to identify, creating risks for public trust and national stability.
The warning comes as governments and security experts worldwide continue to raise concerns over the misuse of AI tools to spread false information.
Security Operations Could Be Affected
The organisation noted that fake reports involving military operations, casualty figures and security agencies could negatively affect ongoing efforts to combat insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality.
It warned that the circulation of fabricated information may weaken public confidence while providing propaganda opportunities for criminal groups.
According to the group, false narratives can also undermine the morale of security personnel working in conflict-affected regions.
Risk of Ethnic and Religious Tensions
The group further highlighted the danger of AI-generated content being used to inflame ethnic and religious divisions.
It warned that manipulated videos, fake reports and misleading social media posts could trigger reprisals, heighten tensions and deepen existing societal fault lines.
The organisation stressed that while constructive criticism and public accountability are essential in a democracy, deliberate misinformation should not be confused with legitimate civic engagement.
Call for Stronger Monitoring and Verification
The group urged citizens to verify sensitive information before sharing it online and called on authorities to strengthen enforcement of cybercrime laws.
It also appealed to major social media platforms, including Meta, X and TikTok, to improve monitoring systems and swiftly remove harmful content capable of inciting violence.
Global Concern Over Deepfake Technology
Experts worldwide have repeatedly warned that rapid advances in artificial intelligence are making it easier to impersonate public officials, manipulate speeches and fabricate realistic videos.
Nigeria has witnessed several incidents involving false videos, edited images and forged documents during elections, security incidents and major national events, often requiring official clarifications and fact-checking interventions.