Effective governance practices ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making, which are essential for sustainable growth and success in both public and private sectors.

In the corporate world, adhering to sound principles of corporate governance helps in fostering investor confidence, mitigating risks, and enhancing overall performance.

By upholding the principles of good governance, organizations can build trust with stakeholders, maintain a competitive edge, and contribute to long-term success and sustainability.

The call for good governance has been put on the front burner in Nigeria with the hunger protest by citizens tagged #EndBadGovernance.

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests: President Tinubu’s Speech vs Reality of Nigerians

Although the protest turned bloody in some parts of the country, resulting in the looting of supermarkets and shops and vandal of public facilities, it has shown the disconnection between the government and the citizens.

The violent turn of events highlights the deep-seated frustrations and grievances of the people towards the authorities. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and responsiveness from the government to address the issues that have led to such drastic actions by the populace.

The unrest underscores the critical importance of heeding the calls for reform and ensuring that the concerns of the citizens are heard and addressed to prevent further escalation of tensions.

Sadly, the situation has further dirtied the reputation of the country among the League of Nations.

However, after several calls by citizens, President Bola Tinubu had to address the nation calling for calm and understanding and urging citizens to end the protest.

In his address, he reeled out some of the initiatives his administration is doing to stabilize the economy and reduce hunger, poverty, and others.

As commendable as this is, it shows how the government has not been proactive and not even deliberate about strategically communicating with the citizens and stakeholders.

Successive governments have also followed this path; they wait until there is an outburst from the citizens before they address the nation. Then they start reeling out the interventions they are doing and how citizens can access them.

This is not just peculiar to the federal government and its agencies, states, and local government; the other organs of government are not left out.

They claim to disburse huge amounts of funds for citizens, but the expected beneficiaries are not aware of it. The effort is like ‘winking in the dark’ and it has always been counterproductive for the country.

Citizens don’t trust the government and the government doesn’t engage citizens appropriately. Town hall meetings met to boost the government-citizen relationship have become a gathering of politicians.

Government spokespersons are commonly seen as the mouthpieces of the political party in power who mostly blame the opposition for campaign promises not yet filled instead of clearly communicating their policies and programmes.

This present government won on the mantra of ‘Renewed Hope’ but after the election, it has failed to deliberately leverage strategic communications to engage citizens and stakeholders to reposition the country.

Why is strategic communications important for Nigeria?

Strategic communications is about communicating the best message, through the correct channels, to the right people, at the right time and using feedback from this process to stay focused on set goals.

Conflict, insecurity, and other challenges facing the country will reduce when the government becomes more transparent and deliberate about communicating to the citizens and not just political party members.

The government also needs to understand that if they don’t listen to citizens and communicate on time, false news or negative perceptions may dominate the public agenda.

Listening and responding on time help build trust. This is similar to how corporate organizations operate; if they don’t treat the feedback, they get from their customers timely and appropriately it will have a negative impact on their reputation and sales.

In essence, good communication is essential for good governance to be attained. The World Bank in a blog post once said,

“When trust in governments around the world is at a historic low, and a myriad of challenges continue to overwhelm leaders, it’s imperative for government agencies to revamp their strategic communications approach.”

It is important to state how a country projects or positions itself will give hope to the people and attract potential investors.

Reputation is very important and most developed economies have strategically protected their reputation and positioned their country as a tourist destination or manufacturing hub.

An example of this is Dubai which is generating massive revenue and investment from tourism and China which is making a huge impact in manufacturing.

Citizens expect the government to fulfill its promises, show care and concern, listen to their needs, and communicate effectively with them. In return, citizens are willing to support government initiatives and policies, which ultimately contribute to securing the future of the country.

This symbiotic relationship between citizens and the government is essential for a thriving and stable society where both parties work together towards common goals and shared prosperity.

By fostering trust, understanding, and collaboration, governments can better address the needs of their citizens, leading to a more harmonious and successful nation.

In essence, for an effective government, it is crucial to stay informed about the news and public sentiment, actively listen to the concerns of citizens, develop well-informed policies and strategies, maintain transparency, accountability, fairness, and responsibility in decision-making processes, and take a proactive approach in engaging with citizens and key stakeholders through strategic communication.

This ensures that the government remains connected, responsive, and aligned with the needs and expectations of the public, fostering a relationship of trust and collaboration that is essential for good governance and effective policymaking.

====

Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan is a strategic communications expert and the CEO of McEnies Global Communications, a leading strategic integrated marketing communications agency in Nigeria.

It was reported that on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, several journalists covering the #EndBadGovernance protests were shot at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja by security agents wearing hoods.

The journalists narrowly escaped unhurt, but bullets damaged one of their cars.

The shooting happened at the main entrance of the stadium.

The firing of what is suspected to be live ammunition is unacceptable and is strongly condemned.

The shooting also appeared premeditated as the journalists were particularly targeted and shot twice within minutes.

In a statement on Sunday, Musikilu Mojeed, president, IPI Nigeria, and Tobi Soniyi, the legal adviser, alleged the security agencies knew where the journalists converged.

“Many of them wore vests, with the word PRESS boldly written on them. Many had cameras and drove vehicles with press written on them.

“Saturday’s shooting is even more worrisome as it came a day after the Chief of Defence Staff said on live television that journalists should stop giving protesters publicity.

“The IPI (Nigeria) is hereby demanding an immediate investigation of the shooting incident at the stadium where journalists were targeted. The officers involved, reported to be personnel of the police and the State Security Service, should be identified and punished.

“The media has a responsibility to cover the ongoing protests across the country, and journalists must be allowed to carry out their constitutionally mandated role without interference and intimidation by anyone.

“Targeting and shooting at journalists carrying out their lawful duties is tantamount to taking a wild shot at our democracy and it should be condemned by all”, the statement reads over the attack on journalists covering #EndBadGovernance protests.

In the context of Nigeria, where protests have sometimes escalated into violence, there is a growing recognition of the need for a cohesive and respectful approach to engaging with leaders like President Tinubu.

By adopting a holistic perspective that prioritizes peaceful communication and collaboration, Nigerians can effectively voice their concerns and contribute to the economic and technological advancement of their country.

Protests in Nigeria are often seen as a way for citizens to voice their grievances and demand change from the government. However, they are rarely effective as a means to bring about lasting solutions to the country’s problems. There are several reasons why protests are not an effective end to Nigerian problems.

Firstly, protests are often met with heavy-handed tactics by the government, including violence and arrests of protesters.

This can lead to further unrest and division within the country, rather than bringing about the desired change.

Additionally, protests can be hijacked by opportunistic individuals or groups who have their own agendas, further complicating the situation and making it difficult to achieve meaningful change.

Furthermore, protests are often focused on specific issues or events, rather than addressing the underlying systemic problems that contribute to Nigeria’s challenges. For example, protests against police brutality may lead to some reforms within the police force, but they do not address the underlying corruption and lack of accountability that plague the entire system.

To bring about lasting change in Nigeria, there needs to be a focus on addressing the root causes of the country’s problems. This includes tackling corruption, improving governance and accountability, and investing in education and infrastructure.

Sustainable solutions will require a concerted effort from all sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the private sector.

Ultimately, protests alone are not enough to bring about sustainable change in Nigeria. While they can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and mobilizing citizens, they need to be complemented by broader efforts to address the systemic issues that underlie the country’s challenges.

By working together towards long-term solutions, Nigeria can move towards a more stable and prosperous future in the national interest.

In light of the ongoing reforms spearheaded by the government of Bola Tinubu in Nigeria, it is imperative to consider whether protests of any kind should be deemed acceptable at this critical juncture. With an unwavering commitment to advancing the national interest and delivering the dividends of democracy, the Tinubu administration has embarked on numerous initiatives aimed at fostering economic and technological growth. It is therefore essential to afford Tinubu’s administration the necessary time and support to ensure the successful fruition of these reforms, as they hold the potential to significantly contribute to the progress and development of the nation.

While it is true that the government of Bola Tinubu may be carrying out reforms in the national interest, it is important to recognize that there are still significant challenges facing Nigeria that need to be addressed.

Protests can be a legitimate way for citizens to express their concerns and push for further reforms, even amid ongoing efforts by the government.

It is also important to note that protests can serve as a form of feedback for the government, helping to ensure that the reforms being implemented are in line with the needs and desires of the people. By allowing for peaceful protest and dialogue, the government can better understand the concerns of citizens and make adjustments to policies and programs accordingly.

While the efforts of the Tinubu administration may be commendable, it is essential to recognize that sustainable change takes time.

Reforming complex systems and addressing deeply ingrained issues such as corruption and governance will not happen overnight. The government needs to have the support and patience of the people as they work towards long-term solutions.

Proposed Tax Reforms will Bring Huge Relief to 40million MSMEs – tappi CEO

Ultimately, protests should be seen as a way for citizens to hold the government accountable and push for continued progress and improvement. While the efforts of the Tinubu administration should be acknowledged, the government needs to remain open to feedback and constructive criticism as it seeks to address the challenges facing Nigeria.

Proactively, I have always seen a true protest, this way:

“If it is a protest, it should be properly channelled, and remain open to feedback and constructive criticism for all Nigerians to win. It should never entail violence of any kind.”

A true Nigerian like me must completely agree with this sentiment. Agreeably, true protests should be properly channelled and peaceful in nature.

Violence undermines the legitimacy of the protest and can detract from the message and goals of the protesters.

Peaceful protests allow for open dialogue, constructive criticism, and a more effective means of communication between the government and its citizens.

By remaining peaceful and focused on constructive dialogue, protests can serve as a powerful tool for holding the government accountable, bringing attention to important issues, and pushing for positive change. Protesters need to respect the rule of law, adhere to non-violence principles, and engage in civil discourse to effectively convey their concerns and advocate for progress.

In essence, peaceful protests that are open to feedback and constructive criticism can create a more inclusive and participatory environment where all Nigerians have a voice in the decision-making process. Protesters must uphold these principles to foster positive change and ensure a more democratic and equitable society for all.

Essentially, peaceful protests that engage the right audiences and maintain objectivity can be a powerful tool for advocating for the economic and technological advancement of Nigeria. By focusing on specific objectives and engaging with relevant stakeholders, protesters can effectively communicate their concerns and push for meaningful change in these critical areas.

Protests that address economic issues can highlight the need for policies that promote inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.

By advocating for reforms that stimulate economic development, protesters can help create a more prosperous and equitable society for all Nigerians. Similarly, protests that focus on technological advancement can underscore the importance of investing in innovation, digital infrastructure, and skills development to drive sustainable development and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

Protesters need to maintain objectivity and focus on concrete goals that align with the national interest. By advocating for policies that foster economic and technological advancement, protesters can contribute to building a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for Nigeria.

Through peaceful and objective protests, Nigerians can collectively drive positive change and shape a brighter future for their country.

Let us set aside the shadow of violence that has plagued protests in Nigeria’s past and embrace a new era of united and peaceful activism.

By adopting a cohesive approach and engaging with the receptive government led by President Tinubu, we can pave the way for meaningful dialogue and sustainable change. Let our voices be heard through constructive means, aiming to build bridges rather than walls in our quest for progress and justice. Together, we can shape a future where peaceful protest is a powerful tool for positive transformation in our nation.

Absolutely, violence should have no place in protests, and it is crucial to adopt a cohesive and constructive approach when engaging with President Tinubu or any government official. Peaceful and respectful communication is essential in fostering dialogue and understanding between citizens and their leaders.

By taking a cohesive and collaborative approach, Nigerians can effectively convey their grievances, suggestions, and aspirations to the government. Engaging in meaningful conversations with President Tinubu and other leaders can lead to productive dialogue, policy improvements, and ultimately, the advancement of the nation.

It’s important to remember that mutual respect, empathy, and open communication are key components of any successful engagement with government officials.

By adopting a positive and constructive attitude, Nigerians can work together with President Tinubu towards building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria for all its citizens. Violence and confrontation only hinder progress and prevent the achievement of common goals.

In conclusion, the importance of peaceful and constructive engagement with government officials cannot be overstated, particularly in a diverse and dynamic country like Nigeria. As citizens strive to express their opinions and advocate for change, it is crucial to maintain mutual respect, open dialogue, and a cohesive approach to communication. By working together with leaders like President Tinubu respectfully and objectively, Nigerians can contribute to the progress and development of their nation.

Let us leave behind the spectre of violence and embrace a culture of productive dialogue and collaboration for the betterment of all Nigerians and the advancement of the nation as a whole.

===

The Writer, Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is the first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and the first Professor of African descent to be awarded a Chartered Manager Status.

As Senator Orji Uzor Kalu rightly points out, the ongoing protests have deviated from the principles of peaceful assembly and are causing harm to the economy and society at large.

In this context, it is imperative to suspend the protests indefinitely, engage in meaningful dialogue, and chart a collaborative path forward for the benefit of the country and its citizens.

The current protest in Nigeria has failed to meet every parameter that defines a protest. Indeed, half education is a dangerous tool; as the saying goes, “Half education is worse than ignorance.”

In this case, the protester’s lack of proper education led to the downfall, akin to falling on their own sword.

The consequences of being misinformed or partially educated can be potent and destructive, highlighting the importance of seeking and acquiring a comprehensive education to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment.

This lack of education and turbulent approach undermines the legitimacy and impact of the protest, emphasizing the significance of knowledge and strategy in effective advocacy.

There are several reasons why the current protests in Nigeria may fail to meet the criteria to be referred to as a protest.

Firstly, the protests may lack a clear and unified message or demands. Without specific goals or demands, it can be difficult for the protests to gain traction and effect change.

Additionally, the protests may lack organization and leadership. Without clear leadership and organization, it can be challenging to sustain momentum and coordinate effective actions.

Furthermore, the protests may lack widespread participation and support from the general public. For protests to be successful, they often require broad-based support and participation from a diverse range of people.

Overall, the current protests in Nigeria may fail to meet the criteria to be referred to as a protest due to a lack of clear goals, organization, leadership, and widespread public support.

On day one of the protests, disturbing reports emerged of violence and evidence of politicians financing demonstrations against the government. This insidious manipulation of public dissent for political gain further undermines the legitimacy and integrity of the protest movement. Such actions not only detract from the noble intentions of those genuinely seeking positive change but also perpetuate a cycle of unrest and division within society. It is crucial to scrutinize and condemn these nefarious tactics to uphold the true essence of peaceful protest and democratic discourse.

The presence of violence and the involvement of politicians in sponsoring protests can detract from the legitimacy and effectiveness of a protest. Violence can undermine the message and goals of the protest, causing harm to individuals and property, and potentially alienating potential supporters.

Additionally, when politicians are involved in sponsoring protests, it raises questions about the authenticity and motives behind the demonstrations.

Politicians may have their own agenda or interests in supporting protests, which can take away from the grassroots nature of a protest and undermine its credibility.

For a protest to be effective and have a positive impact, it needs to be peaceful, well-organized, and driven by genuine grassroots movements with clear and unified demands.

The presence of violence and political interference can hinder the success of protests and make it difficult to achieve meaningful change.

In addressing the current turmoil in the country, the government must consider a range of strategic interventions.

First and foremost, fostering open dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders, including protest leaders and community representatives, is essential to understanding the underlying grievances and finding common ground for resolution. Additionally, implementing transparent and accountable governance practices, such as enacting meaningful reforms and combating corruption, can help rebuild trust and restore confidence in the government’s ability to address the people’s concerns.

Furthermore, investing in social programs and infrastructure development to improve the quality of life for citizens can help alleviate some of the systemic issues fueling the unrest.

Ultimately, a combination of proactive communication, effective governance, and holistic development initiatives is crucial for the government to navigate the complexities of the current situation and promote lasting peace and stability in the country.

Essentially, the government should intervene as a matter of utmost urgency in the current protest situation in Nigeria in several ways, including:

1. Dialogue and negotiation: The government can engage in dialogue with protest organizers to address their grievances and find peaceful solutions to the issues at hand. This can help de-escalate tensions and build trust between the government and protesters.

2. Law enforcement: The government can deploy law enforcement officers to maintain public order and ensure the safety of all citizens. Law enforcement should act in a professional and non-violent manner to prevent further escalation of violence.

3. Political reforms: The government can address the grievances of protesters by implementing political reforms that address issues such as corruption, inequality, and lack of accountability. By taking concrete steps to address these issues, the government can demonstrate its commitment to addressing the concerns of the protesters.

4. Economic reforms: The government can implement economic reforms to address issues such as unemployment, high cost of living, and lack of economic opportunities. By improving the economic situation of the country, the government can address some of the underlying issues that are fueling the protests.

5. Reconciliation and healing: The government can work towards reconciliation and healing by acknowledging past wrongs, promoting unity and understanding among different groups, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and tolerance.

Overall, the government should prioritize peaceful and inclusive approaches to addressing the current protest situation in Nigeria, while also taking concrete steps to address the underlying issues that are driving the protests.

By engaging in meaningful dialogue, implementing reforms, and promoting reconciliation, the government can work towards resolving the current crisis and building a more stable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

Intriguingly, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s viewpoint is one perspective core to the ongoing situation in Nigeria. In his statement, he emphasizes the need for peaceful dialogue and adherence to international laws regarding protests.

He suggests that the current protest’s actions are not in line with the principles of peaceful assembly and may lead to further chaos and economic harm.

While it is important to consider all viewpoints in such complex situations, the effectiveness and legitimacy of protests can vary depending on the context and actions taken by both protesters and authorities.

It is ultimately up to the government, civil society, and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, address grievances, and find peaceful solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria.

It is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being and safety of the people, protect human rights, and work towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

By fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation, it is possible to navigate through difficult times and build a more resilient and equitable society.

Having previously dismissed the notion of protests at this juncture, citing my belief in the diligent efforts of the Tinubu administration to reshape Nigeria’s trajectory towards prosperity, it is imperative to now explore the pathways forward for the nation amidst the current challenges.

In light of recent events, it is evident that a proactive and comprehensive strategy is needed to address the various socio-political and economic issues facing Nigeria.

As such, a holistic approach that encompasses political dialogue, governance reforms, social investments, and infrastructure development is essential for steering the country towards a path of sustainable progress and unity.

In charting this course, stakeholders across all sectors must collaborate and prioritize the long-term collective interests of the nation, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s future trajectory.

Of course, moving forward, the way forward for Nigeria at this critical time involves a combination of immediate actions and long-term strategies to address the current challenges and pave the way for sustainable development and progress. Some key steps that could be considered include:

1. Dialogue and reconciliation: The government, civil society, and protesters should engage in sincere, inclusive, and productive dialogue to address grievances, build trust, and find peaceful and mutually acceptable solutions to the issues at hand. Reconciliation efforts should also be made to heal divisions and promote national unity.

2. Addressing economic challenges: Nigeria should implement comprehensive economic reforms to stimulate growth, reduce poverty and inequality, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for all citizens. This may involve diversifying the economy, investing in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.

3. Good governance and accountability: Enhancing transparency, accountability, and good governance are essential to restoring trust in government institutions and promoting public confidence. Efforts should be made to eliminate corruption, improve public service delivery, and ensure that government actions are guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law.

4. Social inclusivity and equity: Addressing social inequalities, discrimination, and marginalization is crucial to building a just and inclusive society where all individuals have equal opportunities and access to essential services. Policies should be designed to promote social cohesion, protect human rights, and empower marginalized communities.

5. Security and peacebuilding: Strengthening security and promoting peace and stability are vital for creating an enabling environment for socio-economic development. Efforts should be made to address security challenges, combat violence and conflict, and promote dialogue and reconciliation among diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.

6. International cooperation and partnerships: Nigeria should engage with the international community, regional organizations, and development partners to leverage external support, resources, and expertise for addressing national challenges, promoting sustainable development, and advancing common goals.

Essentially, by pursuing these and other strategic initiatives, Nigeria can overcome current obstacles, build resilience, and chart a path towards a more prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive future for all its citizens.

It will require collective efforts, political will, and sustained commitment from all sectors of society to realize these aspirations and achieve sustainable development and positive change.

In conclusion, the complex challenges facing Nigeria require a multi-faceted approach that combines dialogue, economic reforms, good governance, social inclusivity, security, and international cooperation.

By coming together in a spirit of unity, understanding, and mutual respect, Nigerians can overcome divisions, build a prosperous and peaceful nation, and create a better future for generations to come.

It is only through collective action, shared responsibility, and a commitment to positive change that Nigeria can realize its full potential and truly thrive as a vibrant and inclusive society.

The writer:

The body said it observed with concern a series of indiscriminate attacks on journalists covering the #EndBadGovernance protests in the country.

A statement on Friday, signed by Musikilu Mojeed, president and Tobi Soniyi, legal adviser, IPI Nigeria, read:

“We hasten to remind law enforcement agencies that it is the constitutional duty of journalists to cover the protests. They should, therefore, not be attacked while carrying out their duties.

“While we recognise the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order, it is also the responsibility of journalists to inform the public of happenings in the country.

“Law enforcement agencies are also duty bound to protect journalists. In this regard, we
call on the police to investigate attacks on journalists covering the protests. We also demand that journalists be protected from attacks”. 

Reported attacks on journalists include the following:

Benard Akede of News Central Television was allegedly interrupted and harassed by Police officers who barred him and other journalists from interviewing anyone during a live broadcast in Lagos.

In Kano, a vehicle belonging to Channels Television and conveying about eleven journalists was vandalized. The journalists were traumatised, and one of them, Ibrahim Isah, of TVC was assaulted.

Also, in Kano, another vehicle belonging to Premier Radio was also attacked. A car belonging to Cool/Wazobia/Arewa FM Kano was also not spared.

In Abuja, the nation’s capital, Yakubu Mohammed of Premium Times was attacked and injured by Police officers who hit him with the butt of their guns and their batons and caused injuries to his head while covering the protest.

Cameras belonging to journalists were also destroyed by Police officers. Jide Oyekunle, a photojournalist with Daily Independent and Chairman of FCT Correspondent Chapel of the NUJ, was arrested and his mobile telephone seized by Police officers.

“These are in addition to journalists being teargassed alongside other protesters. 

“We call on heads of security agencies to instruct their operatives to stop further attacks on journalists. All culpable law enforcement officers will be held to account”, the statement by IPI Nigeria, read.

Citizens of the West African country embarked on protests in response to the rising costs of living entering its third day.

In a statement on Friday, Arik Karani, president, APRA, said:

“We call for sincere and continuous dialogue to ensure speedy resolutions of the issues that led to the protests.

“Protests and advocacies for improved social conditions are constitutive of civil liberties and central to democratic practice. Indeed, democracy dies without a guarantee of civil liberties. APRA, therefore, commends the Nigerian government for its expressed guarantee and non-aversion to the expression of the right to protests by citizens and the actions it has taken to prevent the escalation of the crisis.

“However, APRA noted with concerns the reported death of persons – including citizens and security forces, injuries to many persons, looting of business assets, theft of equipment and other resources in public utilities – including telecommunication infrastructure, food processing companies as well as instances of destruction and arson that have resulted from the first day of protests. APRA’s commitment to seeing Africa prosper requires that we condemn the unjustifiable death of citizens and security personnel as well as looting and vandalism of infrastructure emplaced to improve the quality of life of the people.

“Therefore, we call on all actors – state and non-state – to stop the hostilities and the outrage. In their stead, APRA advocates continuous dialogue and sincere conversations to ensure quick and concrete resolutions of the issues. We call on the government of Nigeria, including subnational entities, to work with all stakeholders and restore normalcy to the nation. Nigeria is central to Africa’s vision for the progress and development of the continent.

“APRA shares in the grief of families that have lost their members in the ongoing crisis and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed. We wish those recuperating from injuries a speedy and complete recovery and hope that institutions and persons that have lost properties will be supported to recover quickly and return to business to support government’s effort to reflate the Nigerian economy.

#EndBadGovernance protests erupted in several States across the country on the 1st of August, 2024. However, the CSOs accused the government of ‘intentional disruption’ of access to the internet.

The CSOs Statement over #EndBadGovernance protests, read:

17 Internet Restrictions Recorded in Africa in 2023, 330 million People Affected – Study

“We, the undersigned organisations, in the strongest terms possible, condemn the intentional disruption of access to the internet in Nigeria following protests that erupted in several states across the country on the 1st of August, 2024.

“This action constitutes an unacceptable breach of established norms and standards under regional and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a State party and must be halted forthwith.

“A joint reading of investigative reports by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism fij.ng, Peoples Gazette, and individual measurements by netizens using internet measurement tools have revealed throttling of internet speed nationwide, aimed at slowing down information dissemination.

“The weaponization of Internet disruptions and blocking or shutdowns during political unrest only exacerbates the underlying concerns of citizens. These shutdowns go against Chapter four of Nigeria’s Constitution that assures its citizens of their rights to freedom of conscience, expression,  assembly and association.

“Article 9(1) of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights guarantees access to information as the right to receive information, a principle also upheld by Article 19(2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

“Furthermore, disruptions create significant obstacles that damage free flow of information, which may in turn erode trust and increase the likelihood of hostilities and violence.

“Shutdowns also disrupt financial transactions, commerce, industry, labour markets and essential service delivery platforms.

“The government must note that the majority of its citizens are currently at home and need digital platforms to work and communicate. Disruptions such as this can lead to further apprehension and heating up of the polity.

“In a suit filed to challenge the Twitter ban by the Nigerian government in June 2021, the ECOWAS Court declared that Nigeria’s seven-month Twitter ban was unlawful.

“The Court held that it violated the freedom of expression of people in Nigeria and  required the government to take steps to ensure it does not repeat similar acts of censorship in the future.

“As spelt out by Principle 37 of the Declaration of Principles On Freedom Of Expression And Access To Information In Africa, states must facilitate the rights to freedom of expression and access to information online and the means necessary to exercise these rights. They must also recognize that universal, equitable, affordable and meaningful access to the internet is necessary for the realisation of freedom of expression, access to information and the exercise of other human rights. Further to this Principle 38(2) provides that ‘States shall not engage in or condone any disruption of access to the internet and other digital technologies for segments of the public or an entire population.’ The government also failed to acknowledge or provide an explanation for the measures, including their legal basis and underlying grounds.

“Furthermore, the Coalition calls on the government of Nigeria to adhere to the objective of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance under Article 2(10) to promote the establishment of necessary conditions to foster citizen participation, transparency, access to information, freedom of the press and accountability in the management of public affairs. An open internet will ensure this compliance and the promotion of human rights under Article 4  of the Charter.

“At uncertain times such as this, it is important to keep all communication channels open without disrupting and impacting quality of access. This is necessary to ensure citizens are able to communicate seamlessly and access accurate information about the state of things.

“We call on relevant agencies of the government to respect citizens’ rights and immediately cease further disruptions of network services and attempts at future network shutdowns.

Signed by;

1. Accountability Lab Nigeria
2. Africa Cybersecurity Alliance
3. Africa Media and Information Technology Initiative (AfriMITI)
4. African Academic Network on Internet Policy (AANOIP.ORG)
5. African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL)
6. Afroleadership Cameroon 
7. BONews Service
8. Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative
9. Bridges and Hands Foundation 
10. Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)
11. Consortium of Ethiopian Human Rights Organizations (CEHRO Ethiopia)
12. Digicivic Initiative
13. Digital Grassroots (DIGRA)
14. E-Governance and Internet Governance Foundation for Africa (EGIGFA)
15. Equip Africa Integrated Development Initiative 
16. FactCheck Africa Initiative
17. Farnnel Women Foundation.
18. Global Rights
19. Human Rights Journalists Network Nigeria 
20. Institutional and sustainable Development Foundation (ISDF) 
21. Jonction,senegal
22. KnowledgeHouseAfrica (KHA)
23. Media and Information Literacy & Intercultural Dialogue Foundation (MILID) 
24. Media Career Development Network
25. Media Rights Agenda (MRA)
26. National Roundtable on Business and Human Rights
27. Paradigm Initiative
28. Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC)
29. TechHerNG
30. Techsocietal
31. The Abuja School of School and Political Thought 
32. The African Internet Rights Alliance (AIRA)
33. Webfala Digital Skills for all Initiative
34. West Africa ICT Action Network 
35. West African Digital Rights Defenders coalition 
36. World Impact Development Foundation (WIDEF)