The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning against online insults, describing them as cyberbullying and not a form of free speech. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) today, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the NPF spokesperson, clarified that such actions are criminal offenses under Nigerian law and are punishable accordingly.
Adejobi emphasized that while criticism is protected, hurling direct curses or abusive remarks online constitutes cyberbullying, which is distinct from defamation. He reminded the public that Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2015 specifically targets various forms of cyberbullying, including spreading falsehoods, sharing harmful content, and sending threatening or abusive messages.
The police spokesperson urged Nigerians to be mindful of their online behavior, stressing that while defamation can be pursued both criminally and civilly, cyberbullying carries its own legal consequences.
