2023: Stakeholders Demand Robust Freedom Of Expression

As the country prepares for the 2023 general elections, the leadership of Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has appealed to the Federal Government to create a more conducive atmosphere for hitch free elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Monday, the Senior Manager, Paradigm Initiative (PIN), Adeboye Adegoke also called on the National Assembly to pass the digital rights and freedom bill to guarantee the rights of Nigerian citizens in the digital age and to promote trust.

He expressed concerns about the incidence of internet shutdowns and the recent twitter shut down by the Federal Government, saying he hoped such would not be allowed during the 2023 elections.

“We must commend ECOWAS court for reinforcing the importance of this right with their recent judgement on
twitter ban. However, PIN is particularly worried about such occurrences during elections which can interfere with freedom of expression, access to information, freedom of association, and peaceful assembly.
“The executive should engage in a broader consultation to achieve an inclusive democratic and right-respecting approach to content and platform regulations.
This consultation must be held at a level-playing field for concerned stakeholders, private sector, government, human rights organisation and digital rights organisations.”

Arguing that freedom of expression is universal human rights and a fundamental to democratic society, Adegoke noted that it is important for inclusive information in society.

‘’ This right must also extend not only to traditional media outfits but also to the internet and all types of emerging media platforms, which will contribute to development, democracy and dialogue,’’ he said.