By Temisan Amoye

A human rights lawyer, Obioma Okonkwo, has raised the alarm over the growing concentration of digital power in the hands of a few global technology giants, warning that the trend poses serious risks to human rights, privacy, and democratic governance.

In a recent paper on the future of digital governance, Okonkwo described the global digital order as “a double-edged sword” one that offers empowerment through access to information but also reinforces inequality and control through data monopolies and surveillance.

“Data has become the new global currency. Whoever controls it defines not just economic power but also human autonomy and geopolitical influence,” she said.

According to her, what started as a technological innovation to improve communication has evolved into a powerful governance system dominated by corporations and governments competing for control of information flows.

She noted that big technology firms now wield enormous influence over public life, shaping not only markets but also political discourse and even the sovereignty of nations.

“The rise of tech giants has concentrated digital power in a few hands. They can now influence how societies think, act, and even govern themselves,” Okonkwo warned.

The legal expert pointed out that the imbalance between the Global North and South continues to define the digital space, with developing countries forced to adopt data standards designed by wealthier nations and multinational corporations.

Okonkwo said, “control of cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity standards, and digital platforms by a handful of transnational firms creates dependency structures that undermine national autonomy. It’s a new form of digital colonisation.”

Okonkwo also expressed concern that governments are increasingly using digital tools to monitor citizens, often in the name of national security.

“We are seeing a disturbing trend where technology is being deployed to surveil and control people. The line between protection and intrusion is becoming dangerously thin,” she noted.

She called for a global reform of digital governance, stressing that equity, accountability, and human rights must be placed at the centre of digital policy.

According to her, reforms should aim to “redistribute informational power” and hold corporations accountable for how they collect and use data.

“Transparent auditing systems, open algorithms, and inclusive decision-making are essential to ensure that digital platforms serve public interest, not profit,” she added.

Okonkwo cited the African Union Data Policy Framework and the OECD Global Forum on Technology as examples of regional and international cooperation that could help shape fairer digital systems.

However, she warned that policy harmonization must not replicate the same inequalities that currently exist.

“We must embed ethical standards and transparency into governance frameworks so that reforms truly empower marginalized voices,” she said.

On data justice, Okonkwo argued that citizens must have the right to understand and challenge how their data is collected, processed, and monetised.

“Algorithmic impact assessments and participatory consultations can make the digital space more transparent and accountable,” she explained.

She also urged governments to ensure that digital policies promote inclusion, especially for women, minorities, and developing regions that are often excluded from the digital economy.

“Human rights must be the foundation of digital policy. Technology should reinforce dignity, equity, and democracy not undermine them,” Okonkwo said

Okonkwo concluded by warning that the commodification of personal data and expansion of algorithmic surveillance threaten global democracy and human dignity.

“The future of fair digital governance lies in cooperation and harmonisation. Global institutions like the UN, OECD, and WTO must move from fragmented dialogue to coordinated action.”

She called for binding international rules on data protection, standard digital rights enforcement, and the inclusion of human rights clauses in digital trade agreements.

“This is not just about technology. It’s about justice, sovereignty, and the preservation of human dignity in a digital age,” she said.

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