News
SERAP Demands Withdrawal of Proposed Social Media Regulation Bill, Threatens Legal Challenge
By Rukevwe Odeh
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the leadership of the National Assembly to abandon the proposed Nigeria Data Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, arguing that it could be used to suppress freedom of expression and restrict access to digital platforms.
In a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, the organisation maintained that the bill contains provisions capable of expanding government control over online communication.
SERAP warned that if the legislation is approved in its current form, it would challenge its legality in court, insisting that several sections of the proposal conflict with constitutional protections and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, seeks to require social media companies, data controllers and data processors operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices within the country. It also empowers the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to suspend or prohibit the operations of organisations that fail to comply with the law within a specified period.
According to SERAP, granting such powers to the commission without sufficient judicial oversight could expose millions of Nigerians to violations of their rights to freedom of expression, access to information and digital participation.
The organisation further argued that the proposed amendment does not provide adequate safeguards, noting the absence of mandatory court approval before enforcement actions, limited opportunities for affected organisations to address compliance issues, and insufficient consideration of the broader impact on citizens.
SERAP also expressed concern that the proposal could produce effects similar to the Federal Government’s 2021 suspension of Twitter, which was later ruled by the ECOWAS Court of Justice to have violated fundamental rights.
Beyond rights concerns, the group said the legislation could discourage investment in Nigeria’s technology sector by increasing operational costs for startups, artificial intelligence developers, educational institutions and other digital businesses.
It therefore urged lawmakers to reject the amendment, stressing that Nigerians depend heavily on digital platforms for communication, business, education, civic engagement and access to information.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
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