Shock As Police Rule Online Insults, Curses As Criminal

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has sparked a wave of reactions online after categorizing insults and curses on social media as a criminal offence.

In a statement shared via his verified X handle on Friday, the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer at the Abuja Headquarters, Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, clarified that insults and curses fall under the umbrella of cyberbullying, and are punishable by law.

“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 offence and punishable. Be guided,” Adejobi stated.

The announcement has since ignited mixed reactions among netizens. While some expressed concerns over potential misuse of the law, others debated its implications on freedom of expression. The conversation continues to trend as Nigerians dissect the boundaries of online conduct and legal accountability.

Read some netizens’ reactions below;

@General snow: “What part of the law says that?
Quote it let’s read it.”

@trendwithola: “Mr Ire óoo, you are misleading the public. Kindly cite the section in the constitution to substantiate it. Na your own opinion sha.”

@Ajebodanny: “Lmao what section of the law is this?.
What you’re not going to do is twist the interpretation of the law so you can bully people

@timiblaze: That is not democracy!!! What you have done to that lady is political persecution. There is not one single individual who hasn’t cursed online. If i point you to apc supporters who are insulting, can you dare make an arrest?

@damiloju: Let us even assume it is an offence; are you judge and jury. Why did you bundle a lady to Abuja over a video she did in Lagos. When the people involved can simply go to court and let the court decide who is guilty. let us face it, you are a tyrant. Very soon you would face the power of the people.

@akuna: Never ever seen anything like this in my life. Random dude wakes up one morning and decides in his head what is legal or not.
The fact you feel offended from “curses” doesn’t make it a crime, let alone a criminal offence at that.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG