Nigerian influencers and PR professionals are being paid to discredit and criticize Ibrahim Traoré on Twitter

The claim that Nigerian influencers and PR professionals are being paid to discredit and criticize Ibrahim Traoré on Twitter is part of a broader narrative involving disinformation campaigns in West Africa. These campaigns, often linked to Russian influence, aim to manipulate public perception by glorifying certain leaders, including Traoré, through social media. Reports indicate that there is a calculated effort to elevate Traoré's image, with many posts portraying him positively. This is part of a larger strategy where local influencers, sometimes compensated, adapt messages to fit local contexts, making them appear genuine. The involvement of Russian propaganda units in disseminating misinformation through social media has been highlighted, with claims that they utilize local influencers to spread their narratives effectively. While there may be individuals criticizing Traoré, the broader context involves a complex interplay of influence and disinformation rather than a straightforward campaign solely aimed at discrediting him. For more detailed insights, you can refer to sources such as DW and ADF Magazine.