2027: Watch Out for AI-Manipulated Campaigns — Akpabio Tells Nigerians

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to be cautious of artificial intelligence-manipulated campaign messages and false information as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.

Akpabio gave the warning while speaking on the floor of the Senate, where he urged political candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns without resorting to violence, intimidation or misinformation.

He said the growing use of artificial intelligence meant that political messages could be manipulated and circulated rapidly, making it increasingly important for citizens to verify information before accepting or sharing it.

The Senate President called on candidates to present their programmes and respond to difficult questions so that voters could make informed choices.

He also warned politicians against using ethnic, religious or regional differences to mobilise support, saying political competition should not undermine national unity.

According to Akpabio, Nigerians may disagree over political issues while still working together as citizens of the same country.

He said candidates seeking elective offices should focus on explaining their ideas and policies rather than attacking communities or creating divisions among citizens.

“Let every candidate explain their ideas and respond to tough questions, and let every citizen have the freedom to choose based on that,” he said.

Akpabio also called for an end to violence, fear and the spread of false information during the election period.

He stressed that the outcome of an election should not come at the cost of human lives, urging political actors to remember that Nigerians would continue to live together after the elections.

“No electoral prize is worth taking a Nigerian life. No victory should be celebrated if it leaves the country hurt,” he said.

The Senate President said political competition should be vigorous and open but conducted within the bounds of peaceful democratic engagement.

His warning comes as political parties and candidates begin preparations for the 2027 elections, with campaigns and political activities expected to intensify in the months ahead.

The increasing use of AI-generated audio, video and images has raised concerns globally about the spread of misleading political content, particularly during election periods.

Akpabio therefore urged Nigerians to exercise caution when consuming campaign materials online and to distinguish between genuine statements by candidates and manipulated content.

He also encouraged politicians to engage citizens directly and allow voters to assess competing programmes before making their choices.

The Senate President reiterated that preserving peace and national unity should remain a shared responsibility throughout the electoral process.