Deputy Speaker Kalu of the House of Representatives, has advocated for the creation of a legislative framework that is focused on the needs of citizens in order to address the growing risks of cybercrime and online damages, with an emphasis on safeguarding women and youth.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ workshop hosted by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Advocacy for Policy and Innovation (API), Hon. Kalu highlighted alarming statistics showing a rise in hate speech, cyberbullying, and the dissemination of false information. Women and young people continue to be among the most vulnerable, he underlined, and are often the targets of psychological abuse and harassment online.
The Deputy Speaker Kalu emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive, people-focused legislation to govern the behaviour of large tech companies operating digital platforms, drawing on his own experience as a victim of cyberbullying and disinformation.
“This is not just a technical issue, it is a societal issue,” he stated. “We must prioritise the safety, dignity, and rights of our citizens in the digital space. I urge all stakeholders present to contribute towards drafting a robust legislative and regulatory framework that protects users, holds platforms accountable, and promotes responsible digital engagement.”
Deputy speaker Kalu reiterated the National Assembly’s dedication to promoting laws that combine the protection of basic human rights in the digital age with technological advancement.
Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of NITDA, emphasised in his speech the necessity of a comprehensive and citizen-centered legal framework to combat internet hazards. He emphasised how crucial it is to guarantee both accountability and rights protection in Nigeria’s changing digital environment.
Highlighting the dominance of digital platforms, Inuwa warned of the unchecked influence wielded by tech companies over public discourse.
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