Communication and Media Codes Journal

A JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA

ISSN: 3093-0693

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND POLITICAL COMMUNICATION: TRUTHS AND HALF TRUTHS IN THE 2023 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Chidi Nduka Aja

Abstract

The 2023 Nigerian general election marked a significant departure from previous electoral processes due to the extensive integration of artificial intelligence (AI). This paper explores the role of AI in political communication during the presidential election, examining the types of political messages disseminated to voters. Drawing on qualitative analysis of relevant literature and publications, the study reveals the pervasive use of AI by political parties, candidates, and supporters to engage voters with tailored messages. Despite its potential to enhance democracy through increased accessibility, AI in political communication raises concerns regarding the dissemination of misinformation and manipulation of public opinion. The study highlights instances of AI-generated political communication, including deepfake videos, voice cloning, and fake news dissemination, which distort political discourse and diminish voter agency. Through the lens of the Diffusion of Innovations theory, the paper underscores the need for critical scrutiny of AI-mediated political communication to discern truths from half-truths. By identifying and analysing instances of misinformation and manipulation, this study contributes to a nuanced understanding of the impact of AI on democratic processes and public discourse. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Political Communication, Misinformation, Deepfake, chatbots,
Volume:
Vol. 2. January, 2025
Year of Publication:
2025

Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief

Prof. Michael O. Ukonu

Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Dr Blessing Chinweobo-Onuoha

Associate Editors

Prof. L.I. Anorue

Prof. J. Wogu

Prof. G. Ezeah

Prof. C.C. Okpoko

Review

Dr Chidiebere Nwachukwu

Dr Ozioma Nwokedi

Dr Victor Nwogbo

Dr Belinda Anyakoha

Dr Uchenna Eze

Dr Ike Ugbor

Secretary

Dr Stephen Ogbodoh

Design Editor

Dr Ike Elike

Business Manager

Dr Martin Ezugwu

Editorial Consultants

Prof. Nnanyelugo Okoro, Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State

Professor Sunny Udezeh, Department of Mass Communication, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Enugu State

Professor Ezekiel Asemah, Vice Chancellor’s Office, Glorious Vision University, Benin, Edo State

Professor Jude Terna Kur, Department of Information Science and Media Studies, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji, School of Communications, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos State

Prof Walter Ihejirika  

Dr. Chukwujekwu Charles Onwuka Department of Sociology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus. Email: cc.onwuka@coou.edu.ng
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