To ensure ethical adoption and responsible application of artificial intelligence in Nigeria, an Islamic leader has called on the National Assembly to introduce clear regulatory frameworks guiding its use, warning that the technology could pose serious societal threats if left unchecked.
The call was made by Suleiman Yusuf Njoku, the Chief Imam of Imo State, who expressed concern over the rapid integration of AI into various aspects of society without corresponding legal oversight. He noted that while artificial intelligence holds immense potential to drive innovation and economic growth, it also presents ethical and moral challenges that must not be ignored.
According to him, AI systems are not inherently neutral because they are built on human-generated data and assumptions that can embed bias and be exploited if left unregulated. He stressed that the absence of a legal framework could lead to misuse in critical areas such as information dissemination, decision-making processes, and social interactions.
The cleric urged the National Assembly of Nigeria to take proactive steps in developing policies that will guide the development, deployment, and governance of AI technologies. He added that such regulations should align with Nigeria’s cultural, ethical, and religious values while still encouraging innovation.
He further emphasised the importance of accountability and transparency in AI systems, noting that safeguarding human dignity and societal stability must remain a priority as the country embraces emerging technologies.
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The appeal reflects a growing national conversation around AI governance, as stakeholders across different sectors continue to advocate for a balanced approach that supports technological advancement while addressing potential risks.
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