The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning against the use of social media platforms to insult or defame politicians and public officials, declaring such acts punishable under cyberbullying laws.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Chief Police Spokesman, made this known in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday. He emphasized that direct insults or curses online do not fall under the ambit of free speech or criticism but constitute cyberbullying, a criminal offense in Nigeria.
“Raining direct curses on someone online is cyber bullying, not expression of freedom or criticism. Cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offense and is punishable. Be guided,” Mr. Adejobi stated.
This warning comes in the wake of a controversial incident involving renowned human rights activist Dele Farotimi, who was arrested, brutalized, and detained by police over alleged defamation. The arrest was reportedly instigated by senior lawyer Afe Babalola, a powerful figure in Ekiti State.
On December 4, Mr. Babalola allegedly directed the police to arrest Mr. Farotimi and transport him to Ekiti on a grueling 334-kilometer journey lasting over five hours. The arrest has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups and human rights advocates, who accuse the police of serving as instruments of oppression for the elite.
Ironically, Mr. Babalola, who owns a private university in Ekiti and wields considerable influence in the state, has a reputation for championing education and human rights. In 2023, he donated millions of British pounds to advance these causes at King’s College, London. The senior lawyer was also honored by the Ekiti State Government, which designated October 19 as “Afe Babalola Day” in recognition of his contributions.
The incident has sparked debates about the misuse of police power and the shrinking space for free expression in Nigeria. Activists argue that the enforcement of cyberbullying laws risks being weaponized against critics of the political elite, stifling dissent and democratic discourse.
Legal experts have also questioned the constitutionality of such actions, pointing out that criticism of public officials is a hallmark of democracy. They urge the judiciary to balance laws against cyberbullying with citizens’ rights to free speech and expression.
The police warning underscores the growing tension between online activism and state power in Nigeria. Social media has become a critical tool for holding the government accountable, but this new directive could discourage Nigerians from using these platforms to air grievances or criticize public officials.
As the police tighten their grip on online discourse, civil society organizations are calling for robust safeguards to protect freedom of expression. They warn that unchecked restrictions could erode Nigeria’s democratic values and suppress the voices of ordinary citizens.
The unfolding controversy places a spotlight on the Nigerian government’s commitment to upholding fundamental rights, including free speech. As public outcry mounts, all eyes will be on the judiciary and civil society to push back against potential abuses of power and defend the nation’s democratic principles.
