By Omagbemi Sylvester
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has reacted strongly to threats of legal action from the Presidency over the circulation of an alleged AI-generated audio linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that government officials should focus more on insecurity and national hardship affecting Nigerians.
The controversy began after presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga accused VDM of spreading manipulated audio content capable of misleading the public and damaging the President’s image.
The Presidency described the recording as fake and warned that the activist could face legal consequences for allegedly disseminating false information online.
Responding in a viral video, VDM questioned why authorities appear more concerned about social media controversy while insecurity, kidnappings, killings, hunger, and economic hardship continue to worsen across Nigeria. He argued that public anger against government policies cannot simply be dismissed as online propaganda.
The incident has further intensified debate over misinformation, artificial intelligence-generated content, digital rights, and freedom of expression in Nigeria’s increasingly heated political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections.
Analysts warn that the growing use of AI-manipulated audio and video materials could complicate public trust, political communication, and electoral integrity if stronger verification systems are not implemented.
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