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Methodology

How we source, verify, and classify SLAPP cases.

Data Sources

Cases are sourced from:

  • Media reports — Verified news articles from credible Nigerian and international outlets (CPJ, RSF, Sahara Reporters, The Cable, Premium Times, etc.)
  • Civil society submissions — Reports from partner organisations including media rights groups and press freedom NGOs
  • Community reporting — Citizen submissions through our public report form, reviewed and verified before publication
  • Legal records — Court documents, charge sheets, and case records where accessible

Verification Process

1
Intake
Case received from any source
2
Cross-check
Verified against ≥2 independent sources
3
Classification
Severity, violation type, and status assigned
4
Publication
Case published with verified badge

Cases pending full verification are still visible but clearly labelled as unverified.

Severity Classification

Critical Physical harm, abduction, extended imprisonment, or immediate threat to life
High Arrest and detention, criminal prosecution, or severe operational disruption
Medium Civil lawsuits, intimidation, equipment seizure, or significant harassment
Low Online harassment, cease-and-desist letters, minor interference