CITAD Launches PAWSOM-Monitor for Osun Election

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has introduced a digital monitoring platform named PAWSOM-Monitor, aimed at tracking digital rights violations during the Osun State Governorship Election scheduled for August 15. Engr. Y.Z.

Yau, the Executive Director of CITAD, announced the initiative during a press briefing, stating that the platform will assess the digital environment to ensure equal access for political parties and candidates on online platforms. PAWSOM-Monitor utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze websites and social media accounts, providing insights into their operational status.

It will also monitor social media platforms like X and Meta for any restrictions on political accounts. Additionally, the platform allows the public to report unsolicited political messages, ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

Yau clarified that while violations identified by the platform would not lead to election cancellations, they would inform recommendations for enhancing Nigeria's electoral laws regarding data protection and digital rights. The monitoring will focus on political parties participating in the Osun governorship election as a pilot project for future elections.