Samson Itodo, executive director of Yiaga Africa, has been appointed to Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group on Elections (Al
AGE).
Gatekeepers News reports that AI AGE is a global initiative convened by International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).
IFES, in a statement on Friday, described Itodo’s appointment as a significant step towards safeguarding democracy amid artificial intelligence’s growing influence.
Itodo was inaugurated into the group during a virtual meeting on June 12, alongside other AI experts, election administrators, and democracy advocates worldwide.
The Al AGE aims to develop global principles, frameworks, and tools to guide the responsible use of artificial intelligence in electoral processes.
The group will support election management bodies, policymakers, and technology developers in navigating the opportunities and risks posed by Al, particularly in combating disinformation and enhancing electoral transparency and accountability.
According to IFES, Itodo’s inclusion in the group comes at a time when elections worldwide are increasingly threatened by AI-driven disinformation and voter manipulation. His appointment reflects his track record in promoting democratic governance and innovation across Africa.
Before the new appointment, he was appointed to African Union (AU)
Advisory Group on Al in Peace, Security, and Governance three months ago, where he is expected to serve a four-year term, contributing to high-level discussions on AI’s impact on governance throughout the continent.
Commenting on his latest appointment, Itodo emphasised the need for ethical frameworks to guide the integration of AI in electoral processes.
He said, “Given the exponential growth in the adoption of Al in the electoral process – especially against the backdrop of democratic backsliding — the Al AGE provides strategic thought leadership on guardrails for responsible and ethical use of Al in elections.”
“As a member of Al AGE, I look forward to mobilising a coalition of the willing to produce knowledge and resources that strengthen the use of Al in advancing electoral integrity across Africa.”
Itodo holds a law degree from the University of Jos and a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Oxford.
His research focuses on social movements, election law, and democratic innovation.
He also serves on the boards of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance
(IDEA) and Kofi Annan Foundation.
