Sen. Natasha: Group alleges plot to use AI voice against akpabio

The Societal Safety Network (SSN) has alleged a plot to tarnish the reputation of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, using an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-cloned voice recording and a doctored video.

The group claimed that the scheme is being orchestrated by adversaries of the 10th Senate and the Nigerian state in a desperate bid to blackmail and discredit the Senate President.

The Deputy Director of Publicity of SSN, Comr. Olalere Benedit, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja, cautioning that such recordings are part of a malicious disinformation campaign.

He said: “This is part of an ongoing campaign of blackmail and character assassination, allegedly led by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. There is an active plan to release an AI-generated voice note and video to falsely validate baseless allegations against the Senate President.

“This move is designed to smear his image and undermine the integrity of the National Assembly, an institution that should remain respected and sacred.”

The SSN recalled that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had allegedly employed similar propaganda tactics in the past, particularly in the controversy surrounding the Ajaokuta Steel Company, to manipulate public opinion.

Tensions between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated last week after the relocation of the Kogi lawmaker’s seat in the Senate chamber, which briefly delayed plenary proceedings. The situation worsened when Akpabio ordered security personnel to escort her out, prompting intervention from other legislators.

The dispute deepened when Akpoti-Uduaghan, during an interview on Arise TV, accused Akpabio of making unwanted advances toward her in the past, a claim that has further fueled the controversy.

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While the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges is expected to present its findings next week, both camps have continued to trade accusations, with Akpabio’s wife, Unoma, and Akpoti-Uduaghan taking legal action in pursuit of justice.

Benedit called on security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to be vigilant and investigate the alleged scheme, which SSN claims is being masterminded by Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan and his wife, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

He also urged the general public to be cautious and dismiss any AI-cloned materials that may emerge.

He added, “This is a cheap propaganda tactic aimed at misleading Nigerians and blackmailing the Senate President. It must not be allowed to thrive.”