The European Union (EU), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and other key stakeholders in the justice sector have raised concerns over the increasing misuse of Nigeria’s Cybercrime law, particularly its application in arresting citizens for alleged online offenses. They have called for an urgent review of the legal system to better protect digital rights and ensure that online freedom of speech is not undermined. The growing number of arrests linked to online activities has prompted calls for enhanced security measures that respect both digital rights and the right to free expression.
Speaking at an e-Rights training for judges and lawyers, Wynyfred Achu-Egbuson from the EU delegation highlighted the challenges citizens face in navigating the blurred lines between preventing internet misuse and protecting digital rights. She noted that over the past five years, Nigerians have endured incidents such as the Twitter ban and regulatory attempts that could infringe on citizens’ rights, underlining the importance of educating citizens on the intersection of digital rights and human rights in the context of government regulation.
The NBA, represented by its Assistant General Secretary, Mr. Henry Barnabas, praised the efforts of Lawyers Without Borders for organizing the training, which aims to equip legal professionals with the knowledge to protect digital rights. Despite the growing number of arrests related to internet activities, the NBA has committed to further advocacy to ensure that lawyers and judges understand the legal framework surrounding digital rights and the implications of cybercrime laws.
Y. Z. Ya’u, Executive Director of the Center for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), stressed the failure of Nigeria’s political system to uphold accountability and respect citizens’ constitutional rights. He emphasized that in a democracy, citizens must be able to express themselves freely, both online and offline. Advocates Sans Frontieres France also affirmed its commitment to advancing digital rights in Nigeria, with ongoing efforts in pilot states like Lagos, Kano, Imo, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
SOURCE: LEADERSHIP