Deepfake video falsely shows AY Makun kissing May Edochie
An AI-generated video falsely depicted Nigerian comedian Ayo Makun and actress May Edochie kissing on a private jet, when they were actually travelling together professionally to promote their movie. Makun publicly condemned the deepfake and called for responsible use of AI and online platforms.
What happened
An AI-generated video circulated online falsely depicting Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun and May Edochie, the estranged wife of Nollywood actor Yul Edochie, in a romantic scenario kissing on a private jet.
The video was created from footage of Makun and Edochie travelling to London together in a private jet to promote their movie 'The Waiter', according to media reports.
Reported impact
Makun condemned the video and criticized the creators, calling it a misrepresentation of the true nature of their professional interaction and highlighting the negative impact such fabrications have on individuals and their families.
Makun referenced past instances of online harassment involving other public figures and called for an end to divisive and damaging behaviours within the digital community, urging online innovators to use their creative talents for positive purposes instead.
Index analysis
The deepfake was created using AI technology applied to genuine footage of the two actors' professional trip, demonstrating the capability of generative AI to fabricate intimate scenarios without consent.
The video circulated widely on social media, with observers noting the speed at which false narratives can spread and the difficulty in detecting synthetic media, though some commentators noted that AI still struggles to correctly replicate fingers and toes.
Governance controls
Makun publicly addressed the incident on social media, clarifying the professional nature of his trip with Edochie and calling for responsible use of creativity and online platforms.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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