Akingbulu advocates access to information, protection of right to free expression

Executive Director of Center for Media and Society (CEMESO), Akin Akingbulu, has stressed the need to protect access to information and right to free expression, even in the darkest times.

Akingbulu stated this in Lagos during a documentary and discussions on, “Exploring the impact of Internet shutdowns.”

Speaking further, he advocated collaborations in formulating policies that protect digital rights, ensuring that the internet remains a bastion of democracy and development.

To him, ‘we live in a world where the internet has become a lifeline, connecting families, driving businesses, and fueling the exchange of ideas. Yet this lifeline is increasingly under threat.”

To this end, he urged everyone to advocate, innovate, and act to ensure that every Nigerian, and indeed every global citizen, has access to the open, unrestricted internet.

CEMESO’s Programme Manager, Timothy Bamidele, acknowledged those that contributed to the documentary, adding, “your stories bring life and authenticity to the narrative, allowing us to connect with the human impact of internet shutdowns, making this work both powerful and deeply meaningful.”

The documentary focused on experiences of persons, communities and emerging trends from mandated internet disruptions in the country between 2021 and 2022.

There were also conversations around importance of digital rights in fostering democracy and economic development; emerging threats to digital accessibility and resilience in crisis and conflict situations and mechanisms for addressing digital disruptions.

An Associate Prof, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Suraj Olunifesi, suggested, “let’s use our platforms to help the government become accountable in serving the people.”

Have constant engagement, and push information beyond boundaries.”

CEMESO held the event in collaboration with IFEX.