Security operatives have arrested a suspect accused of creating and circulating a controversial AI-generated voice note falsely attributed to President Bola Tinubu, days after the audio sparked widespread reactions on social media.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed that the suspect, identified as Ifechukwu Dennis, was arrested in Benin City, Edo State, by a special team from the office of the Inspector-General of Police.
According to Onanuga, investigators traced Dennis to the viral audio recording, which allegedly used artificial intelligence technology to imitate the President’s voice and spread a series of controversial claims.
“The IGP crack team has arrested Ifechukwu Dennis, who originated the fake voice that he passed on to his gullible targets as President Tinubu’s voice,” Onanuga said.
The audio, which circulated widely online, contained several sensitive and politically charged statements allegedly linked to the President. The recording gained further attention after it was featured in a social media video that quickly went viral.
Following the spread of the clip, the Presidency dismissed the audio as fake, insisting it was generated using artificial intelligence and designed to mislead the public.
Onanuga had earlier called for action against those involved in circulating the recording, describing it as a dangerous abuse of social media platforms and a deliberate attempt to spread false information.
Authorities are yet to officially announce the charges that may be filed against the suspect, while police are expected to release a detailed statement on the investigation.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the growing use of AI technology to create deceptive content capable of influencing public opinion and spreading misinformation.
