The Nigerian law addresses cyberbullying under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015.
This act was enacted to combat various forms of cybercrime, including cyberbullying, and to provide legal measures for its prevention and punishment.we a
The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015
Under Section 24 (2)(b) of the Cybercrime Act, cyberbullying is defined as the use of electronic communication to harass, intimidate, or cause emotional distress to another person. It specifically said:
“to bully, threaten or harass another person, where such communication places another person in fear of death, violence or bodily harm or to another person;”
It encompasses activities such as sending threatening messages, spreading false information, sharing private or explicit content without consent, or engaging in any form of online behavior that targets an individual with the intention of causing harm.
The Cybercrime Act recognizes the serious impact of cyberbullying on individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. It aims to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The punishment available
The act provides for penalties for those found guilty of cyberbullying offenses. The penalties according to Section 24 of the act it is includes imprisonment for a term of 10 years and/or a minimum fine of N25,000,000.00
It’s important to note that the Cybercrime Act also covers other forms of cybercrime, such as hacking, identity theft, online fraud, and child pornography. The act demonstrates the Nigerian government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by cyber-related offenses and ensuring a safer online environment for its citizens.
If you believe you are a victim of cyberbullying or have witnessed such behavior, it is advisable to report the incident to the appropriate law enforcement agencies or seek legal advice from professionals who specialize in cybercrime cases.
They can guide you on the necessary steps to take and help you understand your rights under Nigerian law.
