Presidency warns against religious disinformation ahead of 2027 polls
The Presidency has raised concerns over what it described as coordinated efforts by political actors to exploit religious sentiments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by the Office of Digital Engagement and Strategy, the Presidency accused unnamed individuals of circulating manipulated digital content aimed at creating division and undermining national unity.
According to the statement, recent online campaigns have involved the use of deepfake videos, fake audio recordings, and false attributions designed to portray President Bola Tinubu negatively and incite religious tensions.
The Presidency cited a recent case involving a manipulated video allegedly linked to an influencer, as well as another fabricated clip said to falsely depict a religious leader in a bid to provoke Muslim communities against the President.
It warned that such incidents reflect a growing trend of politically motivated disinformation campaigns as the next election cycle approaches.
“The pattern is becoming increasingly obvious,” the statement said, adding that “desperate actors” are using social media platforms and WhatsApp groups to spread falsehoods, distort religious narratives, and inflame public emotions for political advantage.
The Presidency reiterated that President Tinubu has consistently promoted religious tolerance and national unity, noting that Nigeria remains a multi-religious country founded on constitutional freedom of worship and peaceful coexistence.
It also referenced the President’s 2026 Lent and Ramadan message, where he highlighted shared values between Christianity and Islam, including compassion, justice, sacrifice, peace, and love for humanity.
