…sues platform over user protection concerns

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Citizens’ Gavel, a legal advocacy and digital rights organisation, has filed a suit at the Federal High Court seeking judicial intervention on issues relating to online safety and user protection on messaging platform Telegram.

The organisation said the action followed concerns raised by a recent investigation published by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) through its fact-checking platform, DUBAWA, which reported the existence of several Telegram channels allegedly being used for the circulation of intimate content and other harmful online activities.

According to Citizens’ Gavel, the suit seeks to promote stronger safeguards for users and greater accountability in addressing technology-facilitated abuse on digital platforms.

In a statement signed by Rita Odafe-Ofarn, Lead of the Tech-Facilitated Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit at Citizens’ Gavel, the organisation said the case forms part of broader efforts to strengthen protections for victims of online abuse and exploitation.

The group referenced findings from the CJID investigation, which reported that dozens of Telegram channels with thousands of subscribers were allegedly involved in sharing intimate content without consent and facilitating other activities considered harmful to users.

Citizens’ Gavel also noted that its specialised response unit, Gbami, has received complaints from individuals who reported experiencing various forms of online abuse, including the unauthorised sharing of private images and videos.

According to the organisation, such incidents can have significant emotional, social and economic consequences for victims.

Odafe-Ofarn said there is a growing need for technology companies, regulators and law enforcement agencies to work together in addressing emerging forms of digital harm.

“We believe online platforms should have effective systems that enable users to report harmful content and receive timely responses,” she said.

She added that stronger collaboration between technology companies and relevant authorities would help improve online safety and protect vulnerable users.

The organisation also raised concerns about the increasing use of artificial intelligence tools to generate manipulated or deceptive content, noting that policymakers and regulators may need to review existing frameworks to address evolving digital risks.

Citizens’ Gavel argued that while Nigeria has laws addressing cybercrime and violence, continuous review of regulatory mechanisms is necessary to ensure they remain effective in the digital age.

As part of its recommendations, the organisation called for improved reporting channels for users, enhanced content moderation processes, and greater cooperation between digital platforms and authorities investigating cases of online abuse.

It also urged relevant government agencies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), to continue efforts aimed at addressing online exploitation and protecting internet users.

The group further appealed to lawmakers to consider measures that would strengthen protections against online harm while balancing digital rights and freedom of expression.

“Digital platforms play an important role in modern communication, and there is a need to ensure they remain safe spaces for users,” Odafe-Ofarn said.

The case is expected to contribute to ongoing discussions about the responsibilities of technology companies, user safety, and the regulation of online platforms in Nigeria.