Another individual has been apprehended for making derogatory remarks about president Bola Tinubu and Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The Nigerian police have stepped up their efforts to target people who post offensive comments about politicians on the internet.
Most recently, they arrested Sean King for allegedly making hurtful comments about President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on social media.
Following a recent notice from the Nigerian Police Force, individuals using social media to publicly insult or curse government officials will be subjected to legal consequences.
Chief police spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi recently emphasized this in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, explaining that such acts constitute cyberbullying.
A criminal offense punishable under Nigerian 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 offense and punishable. Be guided,” Adejobi warned.
The arrest of Mr. King has sparked concern among civil society groups and free speech advocates, as it reflects a growing trend of suppressing online dissent in the country.
Critics argue that this crackdown could be used to silence legitimate criticism of government officials, undermining democratic principles.
The recent developments come shortly after human rights activist Dele Farotimi was arrested and detained on December 4 over allegations of defamation.
Farotimi’s arrest was reportedly instigated by prominent Nigerian lawyer Afe Babalola, who accused him of making defamatory statements.
This incident raised eyebrows, especially considering Mr. Babalola’s public commitment to human rights causes.
In 2022, the senior lawyer donated millions of British pounds to support African students at King’s College, London, underscoring a contrast between his philanthropic efforts and his role in Farotimi’s arrest.
The police crackdown is raising concerns over the shrinking space for free expression in Nigeria, particularly on social media platforms where many citizens voice their frustrations with the government.
Legal experts have warned that the vague definition of cyberbullying could be weaponized to stifle dissent and punish critics.
Rights groups have called for clarity on the boundaries between legitimate criticism and offensive conduct, urging the Nigerian government to protect citizens’ constitutional right to free speech while addressing issues of cyberbullying.
As the controversy continues, the arrest of Sean King and others like him highlights the delicate balance between regulating online behavior and safeguarding democratic freedoms in Nigeria/
