Accountability Lab has raised concerns over the low level of public awareness on digital rights and reporting mechanisms for online violations, warning that many cases of digital abuse may be going unreported because citizens are unaware of available channels for seeking redress.
The concern was highlighted during a digital rights awareness workshop organised by Accountability Lab with support from Luminate, which brought together journalists, civil society organisations and social media influencers in Jos.
Speaking at the event, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Associate at Accountability Lab, Alfred Agu, said the organisation discovered significant gaps in citizens’ understanding of digital rights, data protection and online safety.
According to him, many people are unaware of the platforms available for reporting digital rights violations, while engagement with agencies responsible for addressing such complaints remains weak.
“We have seen a lot of gaps when it comes to citizens’ awareness of digital rights, data rights and even how to report digital rights violations. There are limited reporting platforms, and there is little engagement with agencies that are mandated to address these issues,” Agu said.
He explained that the workshop was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge on digital safety, responsible online behaviour and tools for identifying and reporting online abuse.
Agu noted that the increasing use of digital platforms for communication, business and civic engagement makes it imperative for citizens to understand their rights and how to protect themselves online.
“This meeting has brought together journalists, civil society actors and young digital users to discuss digital harms, online safety, privacy protection and responsible internet use in an increasingly connected society,” he added.
Participants at the workshop discussed challenges including cyberbullying, misinformation, privacy breaches, online harassment and digital surveillance, which they said continue to affect individuals and communities across the country.
Stakeholders stressed the need for sustained public sensitisation campaigns, stronger collaboration among government agencies, civil society groups and technology companies, as well as more accessible channels for reporting digital rights abuses.
The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by Accountability Lab to promote digital literacy, strengthen civic participation and encourage safer online communities in Nigeria
