The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has clarified that directing curses at individuals online constitutes cyberbullying, which is a criminal offense under Nigerian law.
Adejobi made this statement in response to ongoing debates about online behavior, emphasizing that such acts cannot be excused as freedom of expression or constructive criticism.
“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 offense and punishable. Be guided,” he stated.
The comment comes amid discussions surrounding a defamation case involving Nigerian singer Burna Boy and his colleague Speed Darlington.
Netizens have debated whether Speed Darlington’s alleged actions qualify as a criminal offense.
Adejobi’s statement sparked reactions on social media. One user, @felabayomi, criticized the position, questioning the legality of such laws:
“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, @omoopee_, supported the FPRO’s stance, stating:
“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. That said, sir, please, you are yet to respond to my question.”
The clarification by the police comes as part of efforts to address growing concerns over online harassment and its legal implications in Nigeria.
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