By Bunmi Yekini
Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called on the Federal and State governments to take decisive steps to safeguard the rights and safety of internet users in Nigeria. The organization decried the frequent misuse of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 by public officials and influential individuals to intimidate journalists, activists, and citizens exercising their constitutional right to free expression.
In a statement issued ahead of this year’s Safer Internet Day (SID), MRA noted that while the law was originally intended to combat cyber threats such as fraud and security breaches, it has increasingly been used as a tool for censorship and suppression.
“These actions not only undermine democratic principles but also violate Nigeria’s obligations under regional and international human rights instruments, which guarantee and protect the rights to freedom of expression and access to information,” said MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe.
Longe emphasized that this year’s SID theme, “Together for a Better Internet,” highlights the need for collective efforts to create a safer and more inclusive digital space, particularly for young and vulnerable users. He acknowledged Nigeria’s digital growth but warned that challenges such as online scams, data breaches, misinformation, and harmful content remain persistent threats.
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MRA urged the Federal Government to review and amend the Cybercrimes Act to prevent its misuse, align it with international human rights standards, and establish clear guidelines to prevent politically motivated prosecutions.
“There is an urgent need for effective legal and policy frameworks that protect users without undermining their rights to privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information,” Longe stated.
He also called for digital literacy programs to educate citizens on online risks, partnerships with tech companies to enhance online safety, and greater judicial vigilance in dismissing frivolous cybercrime cases.
Reaffirming MRA’s commitment to digital rights advocacy, Longe stressed: “Together, we can create an internet environment where everyone, regardless of their age or background, can access information, express themselves freely, and engage responsibly.”