MRA Calls For Safer Internet User Rights In Nigeria

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) today called on the Nigerian government to take legitimate measures to safeguard the rights and safety of internet users in the country.

In a statement released ahead of Safer Internet Day (SID), the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) called on the Nigerian Federal and State governments to take measures to protect internet users’ rights.

MRA highlighted the misuse of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, initially designed to address cybercrime threats.

According to MRA, the Act has been exploited by powerful individuals to intimidate journalists, activists, and citizens, undermining freedom of expression and cybersecurity.

Mr Ayode Longe, MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, emphasised that these actions violate democratic principles and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. He highlighted the SID theme “Together for a Better Internet” as a call for multi-stakeholder cooperation to create a safe and accessible online environment.

Mr Longe noted Nigeria’s progress in digital technology adoption but pointed out persistent online threats, including scams, data breaches, and misinformation.

He stressed the need for legal frameworks that protect users’ rights without compromising their privacy or freedom of expression.

MRA urged the government to review the Cybercrimes Act to ensure it aligns with international human rights standards and to establish guidelines to prevent arbitrary prosecutions.

MRA also called for digital literacy initiatives and collaboration with tech companies to promote online safety.

Additionally, they urged the courts to protect Nigerians’ rights by rejecting unfounded cybercrime cases and ensuring fair application of the law.

Mr Longe reiterated MRA’s commitment to defending digital rights and advocating for a free and open digital environment where everyone can access information and express themselves responsibly.

Together, stakeholders can create an internet where all users, regardless of age or background, can engage safely and freely.

PR