Nigerian scholars urge stronger fact-checking for 2027 elections

The Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) is calling for enhanced fact-checking measures to combat misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections. During a press conference in Abuja, ACSPN National President Prof. Rotimi Olatunji highlighted the growing risks posed by digital technologies, specifically the use of Artificial Intelligence to create deepfakes that can manipulate voices, images, and data.

Olatunji noted that while the Cybercrimes Act exists, additional efforts in digital literacy are necessary to address the proliferation of fake news and social media polarization. The association will host its 13th Annual International Conference on September 2 and 3 at the National Open University of Nigeria, focusing on the theme of media, technology, and elections in Africa.