The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) emphasized that Nigerians have the right to privacy and protection as guaranteed by the 1999 constitution, as amended.
This assertion was made during a training workshop and interactive session on promoting citizens’ access to information, data, and digital rights in Nigeria.
Dr. Olubunmi Afinowi, a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos (UNILAG), spoke on behalf of SERAP and highlighted the role of lawyers and journalists in safeguarding the privacy and rights of Nigerians.
Afinowi pointed out that the law’s interpretation can be broadened, citing Section 39 of the 1999 constitution (as amended), which grants rights to freedom of speech, opinion, and access to information, among other things.
“Sensitive documents must not be released except if such is in the public interest or the interest of the owner of such documents.
“At any point that your data is to be released, you must be informed about the purpose for which it is to be made public, and your consent must be obtained before such an action is taken.
“You have the right to complain to regulatory agencies concerning the mode in which your data is being collected.”
Dr Afinowi, further told the participants that, “Anything that had to do with violence, abuse against children should not be shared with the public. Information concerning children should be kept confidential.
“However, your information could be made available to law enforcement agencies on the clear order of a court of competent record.
“There is no law under defamation that allows media practitioners or anyone to destroy the reputation of a public figure.”
She also stated that journalists should desist from the spread of fake news, adding that anyone, whose fundamental rights have been violated, is at liberty to approach the court for redress.
