Roundtable on Fake News and Blackmail of Government and Non-Governmental Officials, held at Chelsea Hotels, CBD, Abuja on July 30, 2024, brought together key stakeholders to address the growing threat 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 strong warning about the dangers posed by these malicious activities.
Otakwu reflected on 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, resulted in the establishment of the National Fake Tracker. This tool was designed to combat the spread of fake news and blackmail, highlighting the need for a unified approach.
Despite these efforts, the resurgence of fake news and blackmail by individuals and groups posing as civil society organizations remains a significant threat. These entities spread false allegations and malicious petitions, often demanding bribes, contracts, or appointments in exchange for silence. Otakwu condemned these practices as unethical and harmful to national stability.
The roundtable saw participation from high-ranking representatives of 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 address these threats through a ‘Whole of Society’ approach.
Professor Godswill Nnaji, a renowned academic, presented an insightful paper on international laws against fake news and blackmail, highlighting successful examples from Germany, Singapore, and France. He stressed the importance of stringent laws and public education campaigns in Nigeria to raise awareness about the dangers of misinformation. Nnaji’s presentation underscored the critical impact of these activities on public trust and national security.
A key outcome of the roundtable was the formation of a committee to map and monitor civil society organizations across 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 address the spread of fake news.
In his closing remarks, Otakwu urged all Nigerians to reject fake news and blackmail, fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and collaboration. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s integrity and prosperity, urging citizens to reaffirm their faith in the nation for the overall interest of national security and development.
