CCC Raises Alarm Over AI-Generated Disinformation, Identity Politics Ahead of 2027 Polls
The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) has raised concerns over the growing threat of artificial intelligence-generated disinformation, fake news and divisive identity politics, warning that the trends could undermine national cohesion and democratic stability as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
This was contained in the Centre’s Second Quarter 2026 National Security and Stability Report presented in Abuja by its Chairman, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade (Rtd).
Gen. Olukolade said the country faces a dangerous convergence of escalating insecurity, widespread disinformation, worsening economic hardship and increasing ethno-religious polarisation.
According to the report, sentiment analyses and perception assessments conducted by the Centre’s Crisis Communication Hub revealed a marked deterioration in Nigeria’s security environment during the second quarter of 2026, particularly in June.
He said the period witnessed persistent terrorist attacks, mass kidnappings, violent banditry, farmer-herder clashes, the resurgence of extremist activities, and an alarming increase in AI-driven disinformation and coordinated misinformation campaigns.
While acknowledging the operational successes recorded by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in rescuing abducted victims and disrupting terrorist activities, the Centre warned that criminal groups continue to adapt their tactics, requiring more coordinated, intelligence-driven and technology-enabled security responses.
The report identified the rapid spread of AI-generated fake news, manipulated multimedia content and inflammatory narratives as an emerging national security threat capable of eroding public trust in government institutions, aggravating social tensions and complicating ongoing security operations.
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The Centre also expressed concern over the increasing use of ethnic and religious identities by some political actors for partisan purposes, warning that divisive rhetoric could erode decades of nation-building and peaceful coexistence if left unchecked.
Beyond security concerns, the report linked worsening economic conditions, rising inflation and food insecurity to growing public frustration and heightened social vulnerabilities.
It also noted concerns over restrictions on press freedom and the misuse of existing laws against journalists, warning that such developments could weaken democratic governance and accountability.
To address the challenges, the Centre called on the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence-led operations, improve rescue capabilities and expand specialised training.
It also urged the media and social media users to avoid sensationalising kidnapping incidents and security operations, stressing that responsible reporting is essential to protecting operational integrity and preventing unnecessary public panic.
The Centre further reiterated its support for the establishment of state police as part of broader security sector reforms, while urging policymakers to put in place constitutional and institutional safeguards to ensure professionalism, accountability and prevent abuse.
It also called on government institutions, political parties, religious and traditional leaders, civil society organisations, the media and citizens to work collectively to combat misinformation, promote responsible public communication and strengthen national unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to the Centre, addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges requires a whole-of-society approach anchored on professionalism, strategic communication, intelligence-led operations, responsible leadership and active citizen participation.
It stressed that preserving national cohesion and preventing conflict must remain a shared national responsibility as the country moves closer to another electoral cycle.
