The Architecture of Accountability: Shaping Safer Digital Spaces through Design Integrity in Nigeria

Published: Fri Oct 10 2025

Digital platforms shape how Nigerians access information and services, but many use manipulative “dark patterns” that trick users into oversharing data, spending money, or subscribing unknowingly. Current regulations address privacy breaches but not deceptive design itself, leaving users—especially those with low digital literacy—vulnerable to exploitation. This policy paper calls for recognizing deceptive design as a form of harm, creating a Framework for Digital Design Integrity, and promoting user-centered, rights-based regulation to prevent digital harms by design and protect all users without restricting civic space or innovation.