Tinubu media center releases AI image of First Lady as…

On June 14, 2024, the official X handle of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre published an AI-generated image portraying First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as a street food vendor selling akara. This digital depiction emerged shortly after President Bola Tinubu referred to his wife as "Iya Alakara" during the Presidential Press Corps Dinner at the State House in Abuja.

What happened

The image showed the First Lady wearing an apron while frying akara, accompanied by a sign labeled "Iya Alakara – Hot and Fresh Akara." The publication followed recent remarks by the First Lady during the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Flow with Confidence campaign, where she encouraged citizens to pursue small-scale businesses requiring modest start-up capital, specifically citing the sale of akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli as examples.

The release of the AI-generated graphic triggered widespread criticism on social media. Many users expressed shock and disbelief that an official government channel would distribute such content. Responses from the public were largely negative, with commentators describing the post as insulting, ridiculous, and a sign of government mediocrity. Critics argued that the media team was trivializing the presidency, with some users questioning whether the account was parody or intentionally mocking the economic hardships faced by Nigerians. While some commenters attempted to defend the dignity of small business ownership, the overwhelming sentiment reflected public frustration regarding the government's communication strategy and priorities.