Anti-fake news group to deploy music, grassroots campaign
The Action Against Fake News Network (AAFN) has unveiled plans to deploy music and grassroots mobilisation across the 774 local government areas to combat misinformation ahead of the 2027 general
The Action Against Fake News Network (AAFN) has unveiled plans to deploy music and grassroots mobilisation across the 774 local government areas to combat misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
President of the group, Comrade Babatunde Ashafa, disclosed this during the unveiling of an anti-fake news advocacy album titled Malam is a Teacher in Lagos.
Ashafa described misinformation and fake news as potent tools used to mislead the public and undermine national unity, stressing the need for innovative approaches to counter their spread.
“In a democratic era, the tools used to attack people are repetition, misinformation and fake news. If they want to silence anyone, they deploy fake news. That is why we have chosen music, because it spreads fast and penetrates all segments of society,” he said.
He said the initiative is designed to galvanise public consciousness, particularly among young people, noting that each track in the album runs for less than four minutes to ensure easy circulation across traditional and digital platforms.
According to him, the group plans to distribute at least 10,000 copies of the advocacy materials in each local government, with a target of reaching over 70 per cent of Nigerians.
Ashafa added that AAFN would also organise anti-fake news concerts nationwide to deepen awareness and encourage citizens to take ownership of the campaign.
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“We are not mobilising against government, against the enemies of Nigeria and promoters of fake news. Our goal is to raise a generation of anti-fake news ambassadors who will not relent,” he said.
He identified the media as a critical partner in building an informed society, describing it as a major driver of social change.
“The media is not number two, if it is not number one. Without the media, society will not understand what we are doing. Your commitment gives hope and helps shape a better future,” he said.
On the concept of advocacy, Ashafa emphasised patience, collaboration and collective responsibility, noting that nation-building requires sustained effort from both leaders and citizens.
He also called for a reorientation of societal values, particularly among youths, warning against the misuse of cultural expressions and narratives that fuel division.
“The missing link between leaders and the people is misinformation. We have chosen to be problem solvers by adding value to government policies and uniting Nigerians,” he said.
The event also featured participation from media professionals, civil society organisations and other stakeholders, with organisers expressing optimism that the campaign would help curb the spread of fake news and strengthen national cohesion.
