……Gives FG 7 Days to Withdraw Interception
Rules, Cites Threat to Privacy and Free Speech
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stark warning that Nigeria’s existing communications interception framework could be used to target journalists, activists, political critics and ordinary citizens ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement on Tuesday, SERAP cautioned that the Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations 2019, issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission, risk turning mobile phones and digital platforms into potential “spy tools” if left unchecked.
The group gave President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a seven-day ultimatum to withdraw the regulations and subject them to full legislative scrutiny, including judicial safeguards to prevent abuse.
‘Unchecked Surveillance’
According to SERAP, the regulations permit security agencies to intercept calls, text messages and digital data under broad justifications such as “national security” and “economic stability,” allegedly without explicit requirements for judicial oversight, proportionality tests or independent review mechanisms.
SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, argued that such sweeping powers could undermine Section 37 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to privacy, as well as Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights law.
The warning comes amid public concerns over alleged phone surveillance involving senior government figures, including claims linking the Office of the National Security Adviser to interception of private communications — allegations that have sparked debate in political and media circles.
2027 Election Concerns
SERAP expressed fears that, without reform, the interception rules could be “weaponized” ahead of the 2027 elections to monitor dissenting voices, discourage political organising and intimidate investigative journalists.
The group has previously challenged proposed digital monitoring measures, including discussions around regulating platforms such as WhatsApp, warning against what it describes as authoritarian overreach under the guise of national security.
It maintained that national security considerations must not override constitutional freedoms or erode public trust in democratic institutions.
As of press time, there was no official response from the Federal Government regarding SERAP’s ultimatum.
The development sets the stage for a fresh legal and political showdown over privacy rights, digital freedom and the balance between security and civil liberties in Africa’s largest democracy.
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