The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated that cyberstalking and cyberbullying are criminal acts with severe consequences under Nigerian law.
This reminder came from Ondo State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Olusola Ayanlade, during a sensitisation forum held in Akure on Wednesday, September 24.
He raised concerns over the growing abuse of social media platforms and the risks it poses to individuals and society at large.
Highlighting the provisions of the amended Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2024, Ayanlade explained that the legislation now widens the scope of online offences and introduces more stringent responsibilities for 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 further noted that cyberbullying, which involves using digital platforms to humiliate, threaten, or inflict psychological harm, particularly on children and young people, is punishable under both the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Child Rights Act.
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Ayanlade stated that under the new provisions, individuals and organisations are required to report cyberattacks, intrusions, or network disruptions within 72 hours. Failure to do so, he warned, could result in penalties of up to ₦2 million.
He also pointed out other online crimes now subject to prosecution, including identity theft, phishing, child pornography, sending unsolicited indecent images, and promoting terrorism.
“It is also a crime to incite the public against government or state institutions through false online messages,” Ayanlade added.
Calling for responsible online behaviour, the police spokesperson stressed that digital safety is part of civic duty.
“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.