David Ajikobi, the Nigeria editor for Africa Check, has cautioned against the increase in disinformation in Africa, noting that it is a threat to human rights.
Ajikobi stated this at the Future of Media series 2.0, a free digital training event for broadcast journalists and communication students pioneered by TVC NEWS.
The Nigerian editor emphasized that disinformation can significantly harm a range of human rights, particularly the right to free and fair elections and the right to health.
Ajikobi cited Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which states that free and fair elections require voters to have accurate information about candidates and issues. He, however, noted that disinformation has distorted a lot of process and thereby influencing election outcomes.
Ajikobi added that resources like the National Democratic Institute’s Playbook for Combating Information Manipulation during Elections highlight how election results can be swayed by false information.
He said: “Additionally, Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights underscores the right to health. Misinformation about healthcare, such as false information on vaccine risks, can deter individuals from making informed health decisions, thereby endangering public health. This was notably evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, where misinformation led to increased vaccine hesitancy and widespread public health challenges.”
Ajikobi also outlined seven types of mis and disinformation, from satire or parody content, misleading content, imposter, fabricated, false connection, false context to manipulated content, all of which he noted that they have the potential to mislead and cause harm.
“Understanding these categories is crucial for both media professionals and the public to navigate the information landscape and protect human rights,” Ajikobi stated.
