A recent report has identified Elon Musk’s X as the primary platform for online harm in Nigeria, with 34% of users reporting cyberbullying, misinformation, and harassment. The findings, presented by Ms. Shirley Ewang, Advocacy Lead at Gatefield, were based on a study conducted by Gatefield with support from Luminate.
The research surveyed over 500 Nigerians, revealing that women and young adults aged 25–34 are disproportionately affected, with 58% reporting harmful experiences. Despite widespread complaints, 31% of respondents stated that harmful content is rarely removed, raising concerns about tech companies’ content moderation efforts.
“These findings are not just statistics; they represent real people facing online abuse, misinformation, and harassment every day. Tech platforms must do more to protect users, and policymakers need to step in where platforms fail,” Ewang emphasized.
Key Findings from the Report
- X ranked worst for online harm: 34% of users cited negative experiences, followed by Facebook (29%) and WhatsApp (12%).
- Instagram deemed most responsive: 26% of respondents said Instagram effectively addresses complaints.
- Misinformation a major issue: 99% of respondents identified fake news as a significant concern, while 91% believe big tech companies hold too much power over democracy.
Experts at the event warned that unchecked misinformation could pose severe risks to national security, elections, and public health. Digital rights advocates urged policymakers to implement stronger regulations on content moderation and ensure accountability from tech companies.
Global Implications
The report’s findings align with a recent European Union Commission report, which identified X as the social media platform with the highest rate of misinformation and disinformation. While other platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Meta have taken steps to curb disinformation, X has been criticized for failing to act.
Despite these concerns, X owner Elon Musk continues to champion the platform as a space for global free speech, a stance that has sparked ongoing debate regarding misinformation and digital safety.
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