The Nation Newspaper

Tag: cyberbullying

  • Lawyer remanded for alleged cyberbullying Federal lawmaker

    Lawyer remanded for alleged cyberbullying Federal lawmaker

    A 43-year-old lawyer, aigwe Nwalo Johnson has been remanded in a correctional facility over allegations of cyberbullying and defamation against Mr Chinedu Ogah, the lawmaker representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency.

    Magistrate Sandra Onyibe gave the order yesterday in a suit with case number MAB/616C/2025 filed by the Police.

    The Police alleged that Johnson, along with other persons conspired in October, this year to commit criminal acts through cyberbullying.

    The prosecution, led by Eze Chinagorom Ndubuisi in charge of the Directorate of Legal Services, Police  Headquarters, Abakaliki, accused Johnson of conspiring to commit cyberbullying, an offence under Section 516A(a) of the Criminal Code, Cap 33 Vol. 1, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.

    He further alleged that Johnson transmitted a live Facebook broadcast via the account of Amarachi Nweke, which purportedly placed Mr Ogah in fear of death, violence, and bodily harm, contrary to Section 24(2)(a) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2015, as amended.

    Read Also: Osimhen wants Onyedika at Galatasaray

    The prosecution also accused Johnson of broadcasting content intended to damage Ogah’s reputation by falsely accusing him of a crime, in violation of Section 24(2)(c) of the same Act.

    During proceedings, Johnson’s counsel, Kelvin Nwafor, requested that the case be transferred to the Federal High Court, arguing that the magistrate court lacked jurisdiction.

    He prayed the court to grant his client bail.

    Presiding Magistrate Sandra Oyibe, however, rejected the bail applications.

    The Magistrate emphasised the constitutional protections governing remand proceedings, noting that while bail could be considered, the ongoing remand must continue.

    She adjourned the case to December 22, 2025 for further hearing, directing that the case be transferred to the Department of Public Prosecution for advice.

  • Cyberstalking, cyberbullying are serious crimes, police warn Nigerians

    Cyberstalking, cyberbullying are serious crimes, police warn Nigerians

    The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed that cyberstalking and cyberbullying are grave offences punishable under the country’s laws.

    Speaking at a sensitisation programme in Akure on Wednesday, Ondo State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Olusola Ayanlade, condemned the rising misuse of social media platforms.

    He noted that the amended Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2024 has expanded the scope of online offences while imposing stricter obligations on citizens.

    “Cyberstalking is the repeated use of electronic communication technologies such as emails, social media, or text messages to harass, threaten, monitor or intimidate another person,” he said.

    He added that cyberbullying, defined as the deliberate use of digital platforms to humiliate, threaten or cause psychological harm – particularly to children and young people – also falls under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Child Rights Act.

    Read Also: Police officer, passenger crushed to death in Lagos crash

    The police spokesperson noted that under the amended law, individuals and organisations are required to report cyberattacks, intrusions, or network disruptions within 72 hours, warning that failure to comply attracts fines of up to N2 million.

    Other punishable offences, he said, include identity theft, phishing, child pornography, sending unsolicited indecent images, and promoting terrorism online.

    “It is also a crime to incite the public against government or state institutions through false online messages,” Ayanlade added.

    He urged Nigerians to exercise caution in their online engagements and to view cyber safety as part of their civic responsibility.

    “Policing is not the work of the police alone. Citizens must rise to their responsibility, speak up against crime, and support lawful authority to build a safer society,” he said.

  • Seven smart ways to protect yourself from cyberbullying

    Seven smart ways to protect yourself from cyberbullying

    Cyberbullying can be emotionally distressing, but there are effective strategies to protect yourself and reduce its impact.

    Being proactive and mindful about your online behavior is key. Think before you post, be selective about what you share, and stay aware of how your words and actions may be interpreted by others.

    By taking deliberate steps to secure your digital presence, you can lower your chances of becoming a target and be better equipped to handle any negative encounters.

    Here are seven practical steps to help you avoid or deal with cyberbullying:

    1. Think Before You Post: Be mindful of what you share online. Avoid posting sensitive or provocative content that might attract unwanted attention or negative reactions. Consider how others might interpret your words or images.

    2. Set Boundaries by blocking or muting anyone harassing you, use privacy settings by limiting who can see your posts and information on all social platforms.

    Read Also: Blogger convicted for cyberbullying MFM founder, Olukoya

    3. Don’t Engage with Trolls: Bullies often seek a reaction. By ignoring them, you take away their power. Responding can escalate the situation and make it worse.

    4. Document Incidents: If you’re being cyberbullied, save evidence: Take screenshots of harmful messages or posts, keep records of dates and times of incidents. This can be useful if you decide to report the behavior.

    5. Report Abuse: Most social media platforms have mechanisms for reporting harassment or bullying. Use these tools to flag inappropriate content or behavior. If the bullying is severe or persistent, consider reporting it to local authorities.

    6. Seek Support: Talk to Someone: Share your experience with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. They can provide emotional support and advice.

    Professional Help: If cyberbullying is affecting your mental health, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

    7. Practice Online Safety: Strong Passwords: Use unique and strong passwords for your online accounts to prevent unauthorised access. Update Software: Keep your devices and apps updated to protect against security vulnerabilities.

  • Navigating E-drama and cyberbullying

    Navigating E-drama and cyberbullying

    • By Wasiu Oluwasegun

    Sir: In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become integral parts of our lives, offering connectivity, information sharing, and entertainment. Among these platforms, Twitter (X) stands out as a dynamic and fast-paced microblogging platform that allows users to express themselves, share thoughts, and engage with a diverse range of content. However, this digital realm isn’t immune to challenges, with e-drama and cyberbullying emerging as two significant issues affecting users’ online experiences.

    The term e-drama, or electronic drama, is a term that encapsulates the various conflicts, controversies, and heated debates that often surface on social media platforms. It is commonly and loosely termed ‘dragging’.  Users often find themselves embroiled in intense discussions, responding rapidly to tweets and comments without taking the time to consider the consequences.

    While e-drama may seem like a minor annoyance, the more sinister issue of cyberbullying is a growing concern. Cyberbullying involves the use of digital platforms to harass, threaten, or demean individuals. On Twitter (X), where opinions and viewpoints are shared publicly, users can be targeted for their beliefs, appearance, or personal attributes. The 2023 general elections created a lot of scenarios that led to a party hating on the other due to differing opinions on presidential candidates of the political parties concerned. Sadly, the anonymity provided by the internet can embolden bullies to engage in hurtful behaviour without facing immediate consequences.

    What measures should be taken to deal with this menace? As a social media user and enthusiast, be mindful of your judgment. Before jumping into discussions or responding to provocative tweets, take a moment to assess the situation. Is the topic genuinely worth engaging with, or is it likely to escalate into unnecessary drama? Mindful engagement involves choosing your battles wisely and refraining from adding fuel to the fire. This goes a long way in saving your head from ‘dragging’.

    Read Also: BREAKING: PEPC affirms Tinubu’s election, dismisses Atiku, Obi, APM’s petitions

    Similarly, if you come across cyberbullying or hate speech, don’t hesitate to report it. Twitter (X) has mechanisms in place to address such issues. Reporting inappropriate content helps maintain the platform’s integrity and protects users from harm. It helps your mental health too.

    When the online environment becomes overwhelming, it’s okay to take a step back. Spend time engaging in offline activities that bring joy and relaxation.

    Ultimately, the responsibility to shape a positive digital environment lies with each user. By adopting mindful practices and fostering respectful interactions, we can collectively transform platforms like Twitter into spaces where diverse opinions are welcomed without descending into negativity.

    •Wasiu Oluwasegun, Alli (Mr)

    Lagos State University, Ojo.