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, saw Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) taking a strong stand against the rising menace of fake news and blackmail.
Mr. Adams Otakwu, Chairman of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), expressed deep concerns in his opening address.
Otakwu emphasized the need for a collective response, recalling 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 certain groups and individuals remains a significant threat.
These individuals spread false allegations and malicious petitions, often demanding bribes, contracts, or appointments in exchange for silence.
Such practices are not only unscrupulous but also pose substantial hazards to national security.
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. Participants unanimously condemned the spread of fake news and blackmail, pledging to work together to combat these threats 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 insights underscored the critical impact of these activities on public trust and national security.
A key resolution from the roundtable was the establishment of a committee to map and monitor civil society organizations in the country.
This initiative aims to identify fake CSOs involved in blackmail and ensure they are held accountable.
The committee, comprising the Conference of Civil Societies, the National Bureau of Statistics, and the National Population Commission, will work closely with government agencies to monitor and address the spread of fake news.
The roundtable concluded with a call for all Nigerians to reject fake news and blackmail, fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and collaboration.
Otakwu urged citizens to reaffirm their faith in the nation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Nigeria's integrity and prosperity for the overall interest of national security and development.