Yes, Blame It On Artificial Intelligence (AI)

I listened to the voice note purportedly released by Sandra C. Duru, aka “Professor Mgbeke,” and I regret to say that I was not surprised that such a discussion could have taken place between the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the lady.

Let me make this clear: I am not saying that the audio is authentic. The authenticity of the recording, as well as how it was obtained, remains to be established. Until then, it remains speculative and should be treated as such.

But I am also not convinced by the claim from Senator Akpabio’s aides that the audio was generated by Artificial Intelligence.

AI has suddenly become the newest scapegoat. Whenever people are confronted with embarrassing recordings or statements, the convenient explanation is: “It is AI.”

Anybody who knows Senator Akpabio, or who has followed his public utterances over the years, knows that he is a man given to careless and sometimes very loose talk. That does not, in itself, authenticate this particular audio. But it is also not enough to simply dismiss it by shouting “AI.”

If it is AI-generated, let those making the claim demonstrate it. Technology has advanced sufficiently for experts to subject such recordings to forensic examination. It should not be a matter of mere political assertion.

There is also the question of the legality of recording a private conversation and circulating it. That is a separate issue and should be addressed according to the circumstances under which the recording was made and the applicable law.

But what is particularly disturbing is the possibility that a conversation of this nature could actually have taken place between the number three citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the woman involved.

If the audio eventually turns out to be genuine, then we have another troubling addition to the long list of gaffes and indiscretions associated with our political leadership.

This is not about whether one likes Akpabio or dislikes him. It is about the standard of conduct expected from somebody occupying such a sensitive position in the Nigerian political power structure.

It is unfortunate that this is the kind of leaders we are saddled with.