The 2nd National Roundtable on Fake News and Blackmail of Government and Non-Governmental Officials, held at Chelsea Hotels, CBD, Abuja on July 30, 2024, emphasized the critical need for collaboration in combating the menace of fake news and blackmail.
Mr. Adams Otakwu, Chairman of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), opened the event with a powerful address highlighting the resurgence of these threats.
Otakwu reflected on the success of the inaugural roundtable held on January 31, 2024, at the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Abuja.
The event, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and featuring a keynote address by the National Security Adviser, underscored the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat fake news and blackmail.
The establishment of the National Fake Tracker was a significant outcome of that event.
Despite these efforts, the resurgence of fake news and blackmail by individuals and groups masquerading as civil society organizations continues to pose a serious threat.
These individuals disseminate false allegations and malicious petitions, often demanding bribes, contracts, or appointments in exchange for silence.
Otakwu condemned these practices as unethical and dangerous to national stability.
The roundtable brought together high-ranking representatives from various government agencies, including the Ministry of Police Affairs, the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), and the armed forces.
All attendees expressed their commitment to working together to tackle fake news and blackmail through a ‘Whole of Society’ approach.
Professor Godswill Nnaji, a renowned scholar, presented a comprehensive paper on international laws against fake news and blackmail, citing successful examples from Germany, Singapore, and France. He emphasized the need for Nigeria to adopt similar stringent laws and implement public education campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of misinformation.
Nnaji’s presentation underscored the critical need for public awareness in combating misinformation and blackmail.
A significant outcome of the roundtable was the establishment of a committee comprising the Conference of Civil Societies, the National Bureau of Statistics, and the National Population Commission.
This committee will map and monitor CSOs across the country, identifying those involved in fake news and blackmail and ensuring they are held accountable.
In his closing remarks, Otakwu urged all Nigerians to reject fake news and blackmail, reaffirming their faith in the nation.
He emphasized the importance of transparency, collaboration, and trust in safeguarding Nigeria’s integrity and prosperity.
The roundtable concluded with a collective commitment to protect national security and promote development.