SERAP demands withdrawal of Nigeria's mass surveillance rules
SERAP calls for immediate withdrawal of Nigeria's Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations, 2019, describing them as unconstitutional and violating privacy rights. The rules grant broad interception powers without judicial oversight, contradicting international obligations. SERAP cites concerns about surveillance being used against political opponents and journalists. The regulations allow interception for 'national security' and 'public emergency' without strict safeguards. This follows allegations by former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai that National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu's phone was intercepted. The Nigerian Communications Commission issued the regulations in 2019 under the Nigerian Communications Act, requiring interception equipment installation for law enforcement. SERAP urges transparent legislative reform to ensure constitutional compliance.