Tag: Barack Obama

U.S. President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism after sharing a controversial AI-generated video on his social media platform, Truth Social, that included a brief segment depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. The post has sparked widespread backlash from political figures, media commentators, and social media users who described the imagery as offensive and racially insensitive.

The video was reportedly part of a longer political montage that included commentary about U.S. politics and repeated disputed claims surrounding the 2020 presidential election. According to multiple reports, the AI-altered segment featuring the Obamas appeared briefly toward the end of the clip and circulated quickly online after Trump shared it publicly.

The reaction to the video was swift and largely critical. Many observers condemned the imagery for invoking historically racist tropes that have long been used to dehumanize Black individuals. Critics argued that sharing such content contributes to harmful narratives and fuels political hostility.

California Governor Gavin Newsom was among prominent figures who publicly criticised the post, calling the content “disgusting” and urging stronger accountability from political leaders and public figures. Other commentators across the political spectrum also expressed concern over the spread of AI-generated misinformation and the ethical boundaries of political content shared online.

On social media platforms, reactions ranged from outrage to concern about how AI technology is being used in political messaging. Some users warned that manipulated visuals and deepfake-style edits may increase confusion and deepen divisions during election cycles and political debates.

The controversy highlights growing worries about the role of artificial intelligence in political communication. Experts have noted that AI-generated videos can make it difficult for viewers to distinguish satire, manipulation, and factual content especially when shared by influential figures with large followings.

This is not the first time Trump has been criticised for sharing edited or AI-generated political material, though the current incident has drawn particular scrutiny because of the racial implications associated with the imagery used.

The incident has reignited discussions about responsible online behaviour by political leaders and the ethical limits of digital satire and political messaging. Analysts say controversies like this underscore the need for clearer standards on AI content and stronger public awareness about how manipulated visuals can shape political narratives.

As of the latest reports, there has been no official response from Barack or Michelle Obama regarding the video. (Note: This detail may change as reactions continue to develop.)

Barack Obama’s annual favorite music list has become a cultural moment of its own. Every year, the former U.S. president shares songs he enjoyed the most, cutting across genres, generations, and continents.

In 2025, the list once again proved how global modern music has become and Nigeria stood tall once again.

Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé all earned spots on Obama’s favorite music list this year, reinforcing Afrobeats’ growing influence on the world’s biggest cultural stages.

Afrobeats’ Strong Presence on a Global Playlist

Obama’s music lists are not charts or awards. They are personal playlists that reflect what he listens to and enjoys. That’s what makes them powerful.

So, when Nigerian artists appear, it signals something deeper than popularity; it shows cultural relevance.

This year’s list included:

• Burna Boy with Tatata (featuring Travis Scott)
• Olamidé, Asake, Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn on 99

These selections placed Nigerian street pop and Afrofusion side-by-side with global pop, hip-hop, indie, and jazz records.

Burna Boy’s appearance on the list comes as no surprise. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent global exports.

Tatata, his collaboration with Travis Scott, blends Afrofusion rhythms with international rap energy. Its inclusion reflects how Burna Boy continues to operate comfortably at the intersection of African identity and global appeal.

Perhaps the most significant moment on the list is the inclusion of 99; a song deeply rooted in Nigerian street pop culture.

Led by Olamidé and Asake, alongside Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn, 99 represents a raw, energetic Lagos sound. It is the kind of song born from the streets, clubs, and everyday experiences of Nigerian youth.

Seeing it land on a playlist curated by a former U.S. president speaks volumes.

Olamidé’s role as a culture driver and Asake’s rise as one of Afrobeats’ most exciting modern stars come together on this track.

Barack Obama’s favorite music lists have always served as a snapshot of the year’s cultural mood. In 2025, that snapshot clearly includes Nigeria.

For Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé, making the list is not just a personal win; it’s another moment of validation for Nigerian music as a global force.