NIRAN ADEDOKUN: Synthetic media and the growing threat of AI-driven information disorder

A recent widely circulated video allegedly involving Senator Adams Oshiomhole aboard a private jet has sparked renewed debate about the dangers of generative artificial intelligence and synthetic media. According to media commentator Niran Adedokun, the incident goes beyond a momentary political controversy, highlighting a deeper crisis around digital manipulation and the evolving nature of information disorder in Nigeria and across the world.

In a detailed commentary, Adedokun argued that the rise of AI-generated visuals, voice cloning and deepfakes has complicated the ability of citizens to distinguish between authentic content and fabricated material. While conversations around digital threats have traditionally focused on misinformation and disinformation, he noted that experts have long warned about a third dimension — malinformation — which involves genuine information used maliciously to cause harm.

He referenced the 2017 Council of Europe research by Claire Wardle and Hossein Derakhshan, which categorized information disorder into three layers: misinformation, disinformation and malinformation. According to Adedokun, public discourse in many countries, including Nigeria, has largely ignored the last category despite its growing influence in political communication.

The commentator explained that advances in generative AI now allow individuals to create highly realistic videos capable of misleading audiences within minutes. Such content, he said, can damage reputations, inflame political tensions and undermine trust in democratic institutions, especially during election cycles.

Observers say the controversy surrounding the alleged Oshiomhole video demonstrates how quickly manipulated media can spread on social platforms before fact-checking processes catch up. Analysts warn that without stronger digital literacy campaigns and clearer regulatory frameworks, synthetic media could deepen polarization and erode public confidence in verified journalism.

Adedokun called on policymakers, media organizations and civil society groups to expand discussions beyond false information to include the broader ecosystem of harmful content. He urged authorities to invest in public education on media literacy, while encouraging technology companies to improve detection tools for AI-generated material.

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, experts believe Nigeria — like many countries — must urgently confront the legal and ethical challenges posed by synthetic media, ensuring that technological innovation does not outpace safeguards meant to protect democratic discourse.