Cyberbullying Arrests Shake Nigeria: Navigating Freedom of Speech in the Digital Age
Social media has revolutionized communication, offering platforms for self-expression and information sharing. However, this digital landscape has also witnessed an alarming rise in the abuse of these platforms, with individuals exploiting them to defame others, particularly public figures such as politicians and entertainers. This disturbing trend underscores the urgent need for greater accountability and ethical conduct in digital spaces.
In recent years, Nigeria has seen a surge in arrests related to alleged defamation on social media. These incidents highlight the complex interplay between freedom of expression, the pervasive influence of digital platforms, and the legal frameworks governing speech within the country.
Below, HEADLINENEWS brings you some notable cases that exemplify this trend:
The quartet Nigerian journalists
In late September 2024, four Nigerian journalists—Precious Eze (Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of News Platform), Olawale Rotimi (Managing Director of National Monitor), Rowland Olonishuwa (Editor of News Hob Mag!), and Seun Odunlami (Website Administrator of Newsjaunts.com)—were arrested and detained over allegations of cyberstalking and disseminating false information about Segun Agbaje, the Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company PLC (GTCO).
The journalists were accused of publishing reports linking Mr. Agbaje to an alleged N1 trillion (approximately US$600 million) fraud. Prosecutors claimed these publications were false and intended to extort and threaten the bank’s management, thereby causing reputational harm.
Charged under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and the Criminal Code, the journalists faced multiple counts, including making false and misleading allegations on social media with intent to extort and threaten. If convicted, they could face significant prison terms and fines.
Despite the bailable nature of the alleged offenses, the journalists were denied bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos. Justice Ayokunle Faji cited the gravity of the charges and potential flight risks as reasons for the denial. The court also noted that one of the accused, Precious Eze, was on bail for a similar offense at the time of the alleged crime.
The continued detention of these journalists has drawn condemnation from various organizations. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) described the arrests as a blatant attack on press freedom and an attempt to stifle media efforts to inform the public. Similarly, the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) criticized the detentions, highlighting concerns about press freedom and the potential misuse of legal mechanisms to silence investigative journalism.
Destiny Ekhorutomuen
On January 8, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force arrested 38-year-old Destiny Ekhorutomuen in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State. He was accused of creating and operating multiple social media accounts to disseminate false and inciting content aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the police and provoking public unrest.
Dele Farotimi Bail
Prominent human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi was arrested on December 3, 2024, following a defamation petition filed by Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group. Farotimi had raised concerns about threats to his life allegedly orchestrated by influential figures within Nigerian elite circles, implicating security agencies and legal professionals.
Madu Onuorah
In May 2024, journalist Madu Onuorah, publisher and editor-in-chief of Global Upfront Newspapers, was apprehended at his Abuja home by armed police officers from Enugu and Ebonyi states. His arrest stemmed from a defamation petition involving a report about a U.S.-based Catholic reverend sister. Onuorah was detained and transported over 250 miles to Enugu city for interrogation
The Enenche Trio
On January 13, 2025, Abraham Daniel, Enenche Enenche, and Alex Enenche were arrested for allegedly defaming Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche, senior pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Center. The trio reportedly made defamatory statements on social media that were deemed damaging to the pastor’s reputation. They were remanded in Keffi Prison as legal proceedings continued.
Speed Darlington
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Controversial rapper Speed Darlington was detained in October 2024 following a defamation and cyberstalking complaint filed by Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy. The case centered on Darlington’s online remarks questioning the legitimacy of Burna Boy’s Grammy win. He was rearrested during a performance in Owerri, Imo State, on November 29, 2024, and has remained in detention since.
Aminu Adamu Muhammed
In June 2022, Aminu Adamu Muhammed, a 23-year-old student at the Federal University Dutse in Jigawa State, posted a tweet suggesting that First Lady Aisha Buhari had gained weight through embezzlement of public funds. Five months later, he was arrested at his university following a complaint filed by Mrs. Buhari. Muhammed faced charges of criminal defamation and cyberstalking. Allegations of mistreatment during his detention sparked widespread outrage, leading to his release on December 2, 2022, after the First Lady withdrew her complaint.
The Nigerian cases reflect a broader global issue where online harassment and defamation have profound social and legal implications. Several high-profile international incidents illustrate the severe consequences of harmful online interactions:
Semina Halliwell (United Kingdom): In 2021, 12-year-old Semina Halliwell died by suicide after facing relentless online bullying following her disclosure of a sexual assault. The harassment contributed significantly to her tragic decision.
Jordan DeMay (United States): In March 2022, 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Michigan died by suicide after being targeted in a sextortion scheme. Nigerian nationals Samuel and Samson Ogoshi were later extradited to the U.S. and sentenced to 17.5 years in prison for their involvement.
A police spokesperson reiterated the importance of responsible online conduct, stating that cases of online harassment and defamation would be pursued to protect victims and uphold justice.