Democracy OR Dictatorship?

In 2019, the most compile list  journalists arrested or imprisoned in connection with their work shows complex cases of jailed activist-journalists. Some are in detentions because they were involved in political activities than their journalistic work.

 Omoyele Sowore, the Nigerian activist and journalist is a typical example of this. The founded of Sahara Reporters  does not appear on prison but his detention and re-arrest  matter. He was charged of corruption and other political issues.  

His detention has grabbed the world’s attention in part because of the wider, ongoing crackdown on free expression in Nigeria.

What’s next? The Nigerian Senate don’t know!!!

Amnesty International stated that the Nigerian Senate is currently considering two harsh bills on Nigerians relating to freedom of expression through social media, including one which proposes the death penalty for ‘hate speech.’ These bills are supported by the Nigerian government. These bills represent an alarming escalation in the authorities’ attempts to censor and punish social media users for freely expressing their opinions.

The proposed National Commission for the Prohibition of Hate Speech bill, and the Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation and other Related Offences bill, give authorities arbitrary powers to shut down the internet and limit access to social media, and make criticizing the government punishable with penalties of up to three years in prison.

Nowadays, Social media is one of the remaining places where Nigerians can express their opinions freely. The harassment of journalists and bloggers and the introduction of the Cyber Crimes Act have already shrunk the civic space and created a climate of fear,” said Seun Bakare, Programmes Manager Amnesty International Nigeria.