The Fédération béninoise de football (FBF) issued a communiqué on July 4, addressing the circulation of fake images depicting footballer Mohamed Tijani. The FBF stated that the manipulated content, which falsely portrayed the athlete, was generated using artificial intelligence tools. This official statement from the FBF denounces the fake images featuring Mohamed Tijani, which have caused significant concern. The communiqué, published on July 4, explicitly warned the public and media about the nature of these fabricated visuals.
Federation's Formal Statement
The Fédération béninoise de football (FBF) warned that the dissemination of such content is subject to various legal qualifications under Benin's laws, particularly those related to the spread of false information. The FBF formally enjoined individuals possessing or relaying these artificial intelligence-generated images to immediately cease their diffusion and delete them from all platforms. The federation asserted its intention to reserve all legal avenues available, including initiating judicial proceedings against the authors and propagators of the disputed publications. This stern warning shows the gravity with which the FBF views the situation, emphasizing the potential legal repercussions for those involved in the creation or distribution of the fabricated content. The federation's communiqué serves as a clear directive for immediate cessation of the images' circulation.
Player Profile and Context
Mohamed Tijani, 28, has represented Benin as an international player since June 2022. He currently plays as a central defender for Yverdon-Sport FC in Switzerland. Yverdon-Sport FC exercised its purchase option for Tijani in July 2024, securing his services with a contract set to run until 2027. The defender was also among the 26 players called up to the national squad in June 2026. His profile as a key player for both club and country shows the federation's swift response to the fabricated images. Tijani's role as a prominent figure in Beninese football means that any attack on his personal image is taken seriously by the national governing body. His consistent presence in the national team since June 2022 notes his importance to the sport in Benin.
Legal Ramifications and Warnings
The Fédération béninoise de football (FBF) stated that the artificial intelligence-generated images falsely present Mohamed Tijani alongside a woman identified as his wife. The federation asserts that this content gravely infringes upon the personality rights of Mohamed Tijani, specifically his right to image, honor, reputation, and privacy. The FBF warned that individuals involved in propagating these images face prosecution. This action will be taken without prejudice to any civil and criminal sanctions outlined under applicable legislation in the Republic of Benin. The FBF's statement clarifies that the act of creating and distributing such images constitutes a direct violation of fundamental rights, as protected by Beninese law. The federation is prepared to pursue all necessary legal actions to protect the player's integrity and deter similar incidents in the future.
Call for Digital Responsibility
The communiqué from the Fédération béninoise de football denounced the fake images featuring Mohamed Tijani. These artificial intelligence-generated images have been circulating on social media and messaging groups for several days, prompting the federation's public statement. The widespread nature of their dissemination across various digital platforms has amplified the need for immediate and decisive action. The FBF’s intervention notes a growing concern regarding the misuse of AI tools to create and spread misinformation, particularly when it targets public figures. The federation appealed to the public and media outlets to exercise caution and responsibility when encountering and sharing content online, emphasizing the potential for severe legal consequences for those who contribute to the spread of such harmful fabrications.
