The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning against cyberbullying, stating that directing curses at individuals online is a criminal offence punishable under the law.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, made this announcement in a statement that has sparked widespread reactions across social media.
According to Adejobi, the act of raining curses on people constitutes cyberbullying and cannot be justified under the guise of freedom of expression or criticism.
He clarified, “Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberbullying, not an expression of freedom or criticism.
“And cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offence and punishable.
“Be guided,” Adejobi added.
His statement has ignited debates on the boundaries of free speech and the enforcement of cybercrime laws in Nigeria.
One Twitter user, identified as @felabayomi, questioned the legal basis for criminalising such actions, stating, “When does raining curses become a crime? I look forward to the day someone will challenge these laws they are using to take away people’s human rights in the Supreme Court.
“Late Gani Fawehinmi would have challenged that law by now.”
Another user, @DistinctFOJ, cited constitutional provisions, arguing, “Olumuyiwa, assuming your narrative is valid, Section 1(3) of the CFRN states that if any other law is inconsistent with the provisions of this constitution, this constitution shall prevail.
“Freedom of expression is non-negotiable.
“Raining curses is constitutional.”
However, not everyone disagreed with the police spokesperson.
A user identified as @omoopee_ expressed support, saying, “You are absolutely right, sir.
“Raining curses and engaging in cyberbullying is not freedom of expression but an act of harm.
“We must all learn to express ourselves responsibly.”
This controversy highlights the challenges of balancing free speech and responsible online behaviour in an increasingly digital Nigeria.
Cyberbullying is a growing concern globally, with many countries enacting strict laws to curb online harassment and abuse.
In Nigeria, the Cybercrime Act 2015 provides a legal framework for addressing such offences, including cyberstalking, identity theft, and other forms of online misconduct.
Legal experts have noted that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution, it is not absolute.
This means that expressions that incite violence, spread falsehoods, or cause harm to others can be subject to legal restrictions.
Nonetheless, critics argue that the interpretation and enforcement of these laws must be done with caution to avoid infringing on citizens’ rights.