November 28, (THEWILL) – Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Thursday, charged Social media users to ensure that the tech is used “responsibly and ethically”, noting that technology has equipped citizens with the power to drive change and challenge traditional power structures.
Osinbajo stated this while delivering a keynote address at an event themed: “Technology as a Catalyst for Political Action in Africa Conference”, hosted by Enough is Enough (EiE) & BudgIT.
Speaking on the power of social media, the former Vice President charged citizens to self-regulate their use of the platform, noting that social media abuse can lead to government regulation affecting free speech.
“Government regulation may lead to restrictions on free speech and undermine the very principles of open expression that digital platforms were built upon. Users lead the way in ensuring that tech is used responsibly and ethically”, he said.
Highlighting how memes, skits and digital content have become powerful tools for youth in driving social change, Osinbajo said “These creative mediums are helping galvanise grassroots movements, showcasing the transformative potential of technology in activism.”
The former Vice President thanked the organisers of the programme for the thoughtful topic.
“I must say that it’s a very special privilege, of course, to have been invited here. And I think the organisers of the Technology New Media and Citizens and Governments Conference of 2024, deserve all of our commendations for providing the platform for this very important discussion on technology, the present and future of political action. And I’m deeply honoured, I must say again, for your very kind invitation to make these keynote remarks, to open the conversation”, he added.
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