……As experts harped on collaboration and ethical practices in the digital spaces.
Legal and Digital experts have emphasized the need for collaboration and ethical practices in the digital space by journalists and security agencies to promote accountability, transparency and the rule of law.
They made this call at a two-day training programme under the e-RIGHTS project by Avocats Sans Frontières France, ASF France for Security Agencies and Journalists in Abuja and Lagos aimed at promoting digital rights in Nigeria.
Associate Professor at the Public Law Department of the University of Lagos and a collaborator with ASF France, Dr. Abiodun Odusote, noted that journalists serve as watchdogs for democracy, emphasizing that beyond informing and entertaining the public, they have a constitutional obligation to ensure accountability in governance.
“The media does more than entertain; it ensures compliance with the rule of law and promotes democratic values,” Dr. Odusote stated. “Journalists are responsible for reporting the truth, motivating citizens to demand transparency, and ensuring that government actions align with the principles of democracy.”
He said while the media’s role is crucial, security agencies also must maintain national stability, law, and order, and both parties must execute their roles truthfully, diligently and within the boundaries of constitutional provisions to prevent conflicts and abuses of power.
Also, an Associate Professor at the Private and Property Law Department of the University of Lagos, Dr. Folashade Adegbite addressed the evolving landscape of digital rights, describing them as emerging fourth-generation rights.
Dr. Adegbite explained that as people increasingly rely on digital platforms for communication, commerce and content creation, it is imperative to protect their rights online as they exist offline as well.
“When we talk about digital rights, we are referring to fundamental rights that extend to the digital space,” she explained. “People go online daily to search for information, conduct business and express their opinions. These activities must be safeguarded to ensure freedom of expression and privacy.”
She noted that journalists, in particular, must understand the various legal frameworks domestic, regional and international that protect their digital rights.
“There is fire on the mountain,” Dr. Adegbite remarked metaphorically. “Both journalists and security agencies must work together to put out that fire by striving for a better democracy and a more secure society.”
On her part, AI and Computer specialist, Dr. Chinoyelum Nwufoh highlighted the importance of maintaining a secure online presence, referencing the increasing risks journalists face in the digital space, including cyberattacks, surveillance and misinformation campaigns.
“Journalists face significant online threats and ensuring their protection is paramount,” Dr. Nwufoh stated. “Using encryption tools, VPNs and other cybersecurity mechanisms is crucial to safeguarding information integrity and personal security.”
She advised journalists and civil society organizations, CSOs to prioritize cybersecurity tools that offer full protection.
“The free versions of many cybersecurity tools do not provide adequate security,” she cautioned. “Journalists should invest in full-version encryption tools and VPNs to ensure their information remains authentic and protected from malicious actors.”
The AI specialists also urged journalists to stay informed about emerging threats and regularly update their knowledge of digital security measures.
“A tech-savvy journalist is a powerful journalist,” she concluded. “Embracing technology enhances journalistic work, making it smoother, more interesting, and safer.”
The training which is funded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO and implemented together with its partners; the Centre for Technology and Development, CITAD and Spaces for Change, S4C ended with a strong call to action, urging journalists, security agencies, and policymakers to work together in ensuring a free and secure digital space.
Participants drawn from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ and the National Cybercrime Centre of the Nigeria Police Force left the event with a renewed commitment to uphold democratic principles, advocate for digital rights and implement stronger cybersecurity measures in the line of their duties.