Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has issued a strong denial against widespread social media speculation linking him to a planned marriage with former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari. He described the widow of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari as a "mother figure", dismissing the claims as baseless and shocking.
Digital Forensics Exposes Fabricated Image
The rumour, which gained massive traction on platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), was primarily fuelled by a digitally altered image presented as a "pre-wedding" photograph of Pantami and Aisha Buhari. The image surfaced months after President Buhari's passing in July 2025.
A comprehensive investigation by PRNigeria, supported by digital forensic analysis, confirmed the image is a fabrication. Tools like InVid verification forensics and AI-detection software substantiated that the photograph was artificially generated. Forensic experts discovered that the originators used digital manipulation to superimpose the faces of the former minister and the former First Lady onto a wedding-themed template.
Official Accounts and Biography Debunk Claims
Checks of the official social media accounts of both individuals revealed no indication or reference to any such marriage plans. Searches across credible news platforms also produced no corroborating evidence.
In a phone chat with PRNigeria, Pantami expressed his dismay, stating: "It is shocking that anyone would fabricate such a rumour. President Buhari is a father figure to us, and we regard his widow as a mother. The claim is baseless and impossible."
Adding his voice, Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, dismissed the claim on his Facebook page, calling it "an outright lie" with absolutely no truth.
Further evidence debunking the rumour comes from the recently launched 600-page biography, "From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari", authored by Dr. Charles Omole. The book quotes the former First Lady on the subject of remarriage, noting: "She will not remarry…she has grandchildren; one husband was enough." This highlights her transition to a quieter public life focused on her foundation and family.
Timeline of Events and Mourning Period
The speculation began circulating after Aisha Buhari completed her mandatory Islamic mourning period, known as Idda, on November 18, 2025. The completion of this period led to unfounded public discussions about her potential remarriage, which were quickly exploited by purveyors of fake news.
This incident underscores the growing challenge of AI-generated misinformation and the need for public vigilance. It also reaffirms the importance of verifying sensational news through credible sources and official channels before sharing.
