The Action Against Fake News Network (AAFN) has launched an innovative approach to combat the growing threat of misinformation in Nigeria, unveiling a music album and a special notebook designed to raise awareness about fake news. The event, held in Ikeja on Wednesday, featured AAFN’s President, Mr. Babatunde Ashafa, who emphasized the urgency of tackling fake news through collective action and patriotism.
The music album, titled Malam is a Teacher, serves as a creative campaign against the spread of false information, while the notebook targets schoolchildren, aiming to instill critical thinking and awareness about the dangers of fake news from an early age.
Speaking at the event, Ashafa noted that fake news is a major challenge to Nigeria’s democracy, often used to create confusion and erode trust in leadership. He called for Nigerians to unite against this growing issue, stressing that “fake news is the only real enemy of Nigeria in this democratic era.”
The album Malam is a Teacher was described as a tool to engage the youth, particularly focusing on those in the 774 local government areas of the country. Ashafa explained that the character “Malam” in the album represents a leader who solves problems and fosters progress—a reflection of the qualities needed for national development. Through music, the campaign seeks to reach diverse communities, including those with limited access to formal education.
Additionally, the anti-fake news notebook is intended to foster early awareness among young people, encouraging them to question and reject misinformation. Ashafa stressed that critical thinking, tolerance, and patience are essential in addressing Nigeria’s challenges and in creating a well-informed electorate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event also saw remarks from AAFN’s Legal Adviser, Mr. Princewill Akpakpan, who emphasized that the organization remains non-political, adhering strictly to a legal framework aligned with its mission. Akpakpan warned that fake news could lead to serious consequences, including defamation, libel, and forgery, all punishable under Nigerian law.
“We must invest in education and work towards strengthening local government autonomy to ensure grassroots participation in combating misinformation,” Akpakpan added.
The initiative has already garnered support, with plans to translate the messages into local languages, making the campaign accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their educational background.
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AAFN has committed to using music and media as accessible tools to fight misinformation, stressing that sustained advocacy and public enlightenment are key to reducing the spread of fake news across the country.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, Ashafa urged citizens to remain vigilant, stay united, and actively engage in democratic processes, ensuring they are well-informed to make responsible decisions.
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