Online curses now considered cyberbullying, Police PRO warns of legal consequences

December 20, 2024

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has issued a stern warning that raining direct curses on people online is a criminal offense punishable under the law.

Adejobi made this statement on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, emphasizing that such actions are equivalent to cyberbullying and exceed the boundaries of freedom of expression or criticism.

He clarified that cyberbullying differs from defamation, which involves spreading false information that damages someone’s reputation.

In contrast, cyberbullying involves using digital platforms to intimidate, harass, or demean individuals.

As Adejobi aptly put it, “Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberbullying, not expression of freedom or criticism.

“And cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offence and punishable. Be guided.”

Adejobi’s statement has raised intense debate online, with some individuals arguing that mere words without threatening actions do not constitute a crime according to the law. Others, however, support the Police PRO’s stance, acknowledging the harm caused by online harassment.