Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and SERAP urge President Tinubu to cease weaponizing the Cybercrimes Act against journalists and activists, demanding immediate release of those detained

The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have jointly called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to immediately halt the misuse of the Cybercrimes Act to target journalists, activists, and critics.

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They demand the release of all individuals detained under this legislation, citing its chilling effect on freedom of expression.

In a press conference held on World Press Freedom Day, the groups highlighted the Act’s inconsistency with constitutional and international human rights standards.

They emphasized the need for Nigerian authorities at all levels to demonstrate tolerance for peaceful dissent and media freedom.

Nigerian authorities at all levels should show that they tolerate peaceful dissent and media freedom if the Nigerian people are to have any chance of holding them accountable on their constitutional oath of office, commitments and promises.

“The use of the Cybercrimes Act to lock up people peacefully expressing their views sends a chilling message to Nigerians that rights won’t get priority under the Tinubu administration,” stated the joint statement.

The NGE and SERAP also urged the Attorney General to push for amendments to the Cybercrimes Act, bringing it in line with Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.

They called on the National Assembly to review the Act and other restrictive legislation, and for state governors to ensure security agencies drop charges against journalists and critics.

The groups further called on the international community to hold Nigerian authorities accountable for human rights violations.