The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning, declaring that raining curses on individuals online constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law. The clarification was made by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who stated that such acts amount to cyberbullying and cannot be defended as freedom of expression or constructive criticism.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Adejobi emphasized the distinction between criticism and cyberbullying, which he described as harmful and punishable. “Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberbullying, not expression of freedom or criticism. And cyberbullying, which is different from defamation, is a criminal offence and punishable. Be guided,” he said.
The statement has sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some users, such as @omoopee_, agreed with the FPRO’s stance, urging Nigerians to express themselves responsibly and avoid harmful behavior online. “Raining curses and engaging in cyberbullying is not freedom of expression but an act of harm,” they commented.
However, others, including tweep @DistinctFOJ, contested the police’s interpretation, citing Section 1(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which upholds freedom of expression. They argued that such expressions should not be criminalized, invoking the legacy of late human rights lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi, who was known for challenging laws perceived as infringing on human rights.
The police have urged the public to be mindful of their online conduct, reiterating that while individuals have the right to free speech, it should not be exercised in ways that harm or intimidate others. The move reflects the growing concern over online harassment and the importance of maintaining a safe digital environment for all Nigerians.
