NDLEA seeks laws to curb drug-related online misinformation

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Tuesday in Abuja urged the Federal Government to enact and enforce laws that would curb drug-related online misinformation.

Oyutu Obiageli, an assistant commander in NDLEA, said this at workshop on ‘Safer Internet Day’ organised by the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) Abuja Chapter and Young Innovators Nigeria (YIN).

The theme of the event was: ‘ Creating a safer Digital World Empowering Youths Against Cybercrime’.

Obiageli said Tech companies should strengthen their commitment to content regulation and misinformation detection.

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“Educational institutions and parents must equip young people with digital literacy skills to differentiate facts from falsehoods.

“The public must take responsibility by verifying information before sharing and reporting harmful content.

“The public must also take responsibility by verifying information before sharing and reporting harmful content,” she said.

Obiageli called for the need for young people to be equipped with digital literacy skills to critically analyse drug-related content online.

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“We must establish fact-checking initiatives and collaborate with influencers who promote factual drug education.

“Strengthening legislation to regulate online drug-related content is important. Technology alone is not enough. Strong legislation and enforcement mechanisms are crucial in holding digital platforms accountable for the content they host,” she said.

The chairman of Abuja Chapter of NCS, Mr. John Odumesi, said the digital space had become an indispensable part of learning process, communication and innovation.

He said the interconnected world also presents significant risks, especially for young people, often susceptible to online predators, cyber bulling, misinformation and other forms of cyber crime.

“The workshop is timely and relevant; it highlights the urgent need to equip our youth with knowledge, skills and resources necessary to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly.

“We must empower them to become responsible digital citizens,” Odumesi said.

The Founder of YIN, Mr Andrew Agbo, said there was need to enlighten youths on the dangers and opportunities associated with the internet.

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He said the emergence of the internet had made it possible for people to access tons of digitized information at their convenience.

Agbo said it had enhanced communication, improved business transactions, and expanded access to information, adding that in the education space, students can work interactively and unrestricted without worrying about time and the usual physical constraints.

He said the programme would improve the knowledge of young innovators as they can use the internet to create new ideas, develop new technologies and address local issues.

The Zonal Coordinator, North Central Zone (NCS) , Mr. Bayo Onimode, said the Day was an important initiative that helps inform the public on how to use online resources safely and responsibly.

He advised Nigerians to be careful on the various online platforms they follow, saying some of them could be an avenue for cyber crime.