CSO Demands Stronger Protection Against Digital Rights Abuse In Nasarawa

Accountability Lab Nigeria has called for collective action among stakeholders to address the rising cases of digital rights violations in Nasarawa State.

The call was made during a one-day community-focused workshop on digital rights, data protection, and accountability held in Lafia.

The Country Director of Accountability Lab Nigeria, Mr. Odeh Friday, said the growing trend of digital rights abuse is undermining development and threatening citizens’ right to privacy.

He advocated comprehensive legal reforms, stronger civic advocacy, and improved institutional accountability as key measures to tackle the challenge.

He also stressed the critical role of civil society organisations (CSOs) and journalists in protecting citizens from abuse through sustained advocacy and public enlightenment.

According to him, this can be achieved through ethical reporting practices that emphasise consent, confidentiality, and responsible data handling.

Also speaking, the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Associate of Accountability Lab Nigeria, Alfred Ijeloesa Agu, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to amplify voices against rights violations.

He urged the establishment of a network of advocates and local actors to promote awareness, support victims, and strengthen inclusive digital governance in the state.

He said the workshop, supported by Luminate, was aimed at enhancing participants’ capacity to engage in discussions on digital rights, online safety, and the Nigeria Data Protection Act.

Agu also noted that platforms such as Ripoti are being used to report and track rights violations, as well as hold institutions and individuals accountable for breaches of digital rights.

He explained that complaints can be submitted on the Ripoti platform in English, French, Swahili, and Portuguese, allowing reports from across Africa beyond Nigeria.

Also speaking, Gender Associate at Accountability Lab Nigeria, Akakan Markson, said the digital age requires urgent and coordinated action to safeguard citizens online.

She noted that the workshop was designed to address digital rights challenges affecting various groups, including journalists, students, women, creatives, and community members.

“We must move beyond mere conversations and toward a shared understanding and actionable framework that strengthens the protection and promotion of digital rights across Nasarawa State,” she said.

The workshop, supported by Luminate, also encouraged participants to explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence as part of efforts to enhance data protection and online safety