Exclusive: Fox News denies any involvement in the purchase of an audio tape apparently featuring an unflattering portrayal of Michelle Obama. In a widely-circulated Web post, an organization called African Press International claims to be in negotiations with the network to air the tape.

An FNC spokesman tells TVNewser: “API’s dubious claim that FOX News has purchased a supposed audio tape to be aired prior to Election Day is absolutely false.”

Today’s post on the API Website reads:

A final agreement has been reached between African Press International (API) and Fox News Network (USA) on the dates to air the Michelle Obama tape arising from a discussion Mrs. Obama had with the API two weeks ago. The show will take place any day/time from now, with a 15 minutes alert on when it is to take place. Other programmes will be interrupted. This is a precaution taken to avoid interference from any quarter. In the agreement, Fox News Network will broadcast 39 minutes of the 54 minutes long tape.

ABC’s Jake Tapper talked with Obama campaign senior adviser Robert Gibbs last week who told him no such tape exists. “It’s bogus, she didn’t call, it’s all a lie,” Gibbs says.