In all, five countries recorded internet rights-related violations. One journalist was arrested and detained in Mauritania for publishing an article on Facebook questioning the use of public funds. A social media activist was killed, one another journalist was arrested and detained in Ghana. One female journalist came under attack through Facebook publication for simply reporting on a politician that presented fake academic credentials to the authorities. In Benin, a political activist was arrested. Besides, Nigeria has been making the headlines of the news and has so far recorded the longest shutdown of a social media platform in the sub-region.<\/p>\n
Additionally, several other countries have taken steps to control the free flow of information on social media. For instance, Senegal indicated establishing a monitoring center of social media platforms. While in Sierra Leone, there were heated debates around the adoption of a cybersecurity Bill, considered detrimental to freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
But finally, the authorities adopted the law, with an amendment of the provisions considered problematic of the press freedom, freedom of expression online. On the other side, some incidents of a deviant form of internet use were recorded, including the arrest of cybercriminals, detention of a social activist that allegedly propagated fake news in Cote d\u2019Ivoire that led to communities\u2019 clashes, with a death fatality. Victims of internet rights violations during this second quarter were the vast users of the Twitter platform in Nigeria, where the platform was banned.<\/p>\n
All the violations recorded during the period under review were perpetrated by state officials, state security agencies, and individuals.<\/p>\n
The report features other developments related to digital rights, and end with some recommendation to ensure the protection and promotion of internet rights, freedom of expression online.<\/p>\n