The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, on Tuesday charged the nation’s Judiciary to join the current digital revolution in the country, describing it as phenomenon with monumental implications for all arms of governments in the rapidly evolving ICT-driven global space.
Maida, who gave the charge in his address at the 2024 Edition of the Judges Workshop at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja- Lagos, maintained that as the digital landscape continued to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the judiciary stood as a vital pillar in shaping a present and a future where technology serves humanity.
According to him, the judiciary is not simply a bystander observing the digital revolution but rather is an active participant, playing a continuous role in shaping the legal frameworks that govern this new technological era.
The EVC maintained the Judiciary’s ability to adapt and evolve alongside technological advancements remained paramount in ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation are accessible to all, while mitigating potential risks.
Specifically, the NCC boss pointed out that with the digital age advancing, judicial officers must constantly adapt to ensure that the rule of law is as effective and enforceable in the online realm as it is in the world of brick and mortar.
He expatiated: “One key challenge lies in adapting existing legal principles to the complexities of emerging and evolving technologies.
“Nigerians are eager to see a new chapter of digital justice, where the roles played by the judiciary are effectively translated and adapted into online contexts, as follows; “Protecting fundamental rights: The responsibility of the judiciary to act as a guardian of individual rights in the digital sphere, safeguarding privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information, while also ensuring a balance between these rights and the need for security and order.
“Enforcing digital contracts and resolving disputes: The responsibility of the judiciary to provide a mechanism for enforcing online agreements and resolving disputes arising from e-commerce, intellectual property, and other digital transactions, fostering trust and predictability in the digital economy.
“Developing digital jurisprudence: The responsibility of the judiciary to continually interpret and apply existing laws to new digital contexts, creating a body of digital jurisprudence that provides clarity and guidance for individuals, businesses, and governments operating in the digital space.
“Promoting innovation: the responsibility of the judiciary to foster innovation by providing a stable legal framework that encourages investment and development in emerging technologies”, the industry regulator added.
He expressed optimism that the workshop would enrich the development of communications laws in Nigeria, and produce outcomes that would be of immense benefit to all stakeholders.
