Misinformation, disinformation major issues militating against election success in Nigeria — KDI

The Team Lead of Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), Bukola Idowu, has revealed that research and analysis indicate that during the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, as well as the general elections, one of the major issues stakeholders will contend with is misinformation and disinformation.

Idowu also said that much of the misinformation recorded in December was driven by artificial intelligence.

This concern formed the focus of discussions at the Osun Democracy Talk (Osun DemTalks), organised by KDI as part of its civic engagement activities in the state on Thursday in Osogbo.

Speaking at the event, the KDI Team Lead said the forum was designed to prepare citizens for emerging threats to credible elections as Osun State moves closer to another electoral cycle.

Idowu explained that misinformation has been identified as a key obstacle to free and fair elections, noting that false narratives often fuel tension and, in some cases, election-related violence.

According to him, “Research also shows that when information goes out, the number of people who first receive misinformation is more than those who ever see the debunking, meaning misinformation spreads faster.”

She stressed that the growing use of artificial intelligence in content creation has made the challenge more complex, as manipulated images, videos, and messages can easily mislead voters.

Idowu disclosed that KDI launched an election-focused artificial intelligence platform on June 13, 2024, aimed at disseminating verified electoral information to the public using digital tools.

“One of the things we are doing is to ensure that we sensitise and encourage people to get official and verified information. Informed voters remain the strongest defence against manipulation,” she said.

She noted that while politicians compete for votes, citizens are increasingly drawn into a war of narratives, making access to credible information essential.

In his goodwill message, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke, urged participants to actively support election monitoring.

Dr Agboke stated that citizens should report irregularities rather than remain passive critics during polls.

“During the election, see something, say something. It is not enough to sit down and criticise. INEC is committed to ensuring that every valid vote counts,” he said.

Agboke also warned that unaccredited organisations should stay away from the electoral process, adding that INEC would take measures to curb vote buying and electoral misconduct.

He commended KDI for what he described as a sincere effort to strengthen democracy and the electoral process.

Agboke said, “My message to you is that whatever conversation we have today, what will make it meaningful is that on election day you team up and see what you can do to help INEC achieve success.”

Also speaking, the representative of Adeniyi Steven Adefarasin, the Osun State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Afolabi Adeyemi Alaba, said the programme was organised to promote a shift towards responsible civic participation.

He stated that democracy goes beyond social media engagement, urging voters, especially youths, to follow the election timetable and take part in decisions affecting their future.

“We must reject vote buying, resist misinformation, and refuse to be used for election violence. It is only by your votes that you can be heard,” Alaba said.

Misinformation, disinformation major issues militating against election success in Nigeria — KDI