From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Over 30 High Court Judges participated in a digital rights innovative lab workshop designed to sharpen their skills and competence on digital interactions for improved adjudication in a 21st century that’s driven by technology.
The training which was facilitated by the Accountability Lab Nigeria exposed the Judges to deep information and knowledge about ICT, and several ways that could use technology to fasten their services.
Friday Odeh, Country Director, Accountability Lab Nigeria, told journalists at the workshop in Abuja, that the training became necessary following the observed knowledge limitations of the Judges on issues of digital rights, data protection and privacy, and considering the fact that applications of ICT tools in legal system has become a must.
He said: “We needed to create a deep and sincere conversation with the Judges, and make them understand their roles in promoting human rights particularly in the digital space.
“We will also engage with Judges from the Magistrate Court, as well as members of the Nigeria Bar Association so that collectively, they would have a good knowledge of how to juggle between data privacy, human rights and national security.”
Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Tony Ojukwu, in his submission noted that such a workshop for the Judges was important to advance digital rights in an increasingly interconnected world made easy by technology.
He said: “This workshop comes at a time when innovation must align with human rights; Governments, most especially the Justice sector as well as civil society, private sector actors, and individuals must work together to ensure that digital rights are protected across geographies and communities; creativity and resilience are non-negotiable; and addressing complex digital challenges requires bold, out-of-the-box thinking.
“Technology is neutral until we decide how to use it. So, it is up to us to ensure that innovation empowers individuals rather than oppresses them. As we enter deeper into the digital age, the internet and digital technologies have become central to almost every aspect of our lives.
“They empower us to connect, learn, innovate, and amplify our voices. Yet, alongside these opportunities, the digital landscape presents profound that require innovative solutions, collaborative efforts, and a steadfast commitment to upholding fundamental rights.
“So, this workshop is not just a gathering, but a call to action. It is an acknowledgment that digital rights which encompasses freedom of expression, privacy, access to information, and protection from online harm are not optional in the digital era. They are essential.
“However, as we embrace the potential of digital platforms, we must also recognize the evolving threats to these rights. The rise of surveillance, censorship, data breaches, and online abuse highlights the urgent need for robust enforcement mechanisms, ethical innovation, and a deeper understanding of the role of rights in our digital ecosystems. Let us remember that digital rights are human rights.”