Cyberbullying has become a persistent issue in Nigeria, especially in the aftermath of significant events like the Super Eagles’ defeat in the AFCON 2023 final. The recent incident involving Nigerian footballer, Alex Iwobi, highlights the alarming extent of cyberbullying in the country’s cyberspace.
A former goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, also received similar harsh treatments from fans after Nigeria’s exit from the same competition in 2021.
The rise of social media platforms has provided individuals with unprecedented connectivity, but it has also facilitated the proliferation of cyberbullying. In Nigeria, instances of cyberbullying often escalate during high profile events like sporting competitions, where emotions run high and individuals become targets of online harassment based on their performance.
The case of Iwobi who faced severe cyberbullying on Instagram following the Super Eagles’ defeat underscores the detrimental impact of online harassment. Misguided individuals took to social media to target Iwobi, unfairly blaming him for the team’s loss and subjecting him to derogatory comments and insults. The situation escalated to the extent that Iwobi felt compelled to delete all his posts on Instagram, highlighting the distressing consequences of cyberbullying on victims’ mental health and wellbeing.
In response to the growing threat of cyberbullying, Nigeria has enacted laws and provisions aimed at addressing online harassment and protecting individuals from digital abuse. The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act of 2015 represents a significant legislative effort to combat cybercrime, including cyberbullying. This provision is already under review at the National Assembly. The act defines cyberbullying as the use of electronic communication to harass, intimidate or threaten individuals; with attendant penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for offenders.
Furthermore, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has developed guidelines and frameworks to promote cybersecurity and address cyberbullying in Nigeria. These initiatives include awareness campaigns, capacity building programmes and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cyberbullies.
Despite the existence of laws and provisions, the enforcement of cyberbullying regulations remains a challenge in Nigeria. The lack of robust implementation mechanisms, inadequate resources and limited public awareness contribute to the impunity enjoyed by cyberbullies.
Additionally, the anonymity afforded by online platforms makes it difficult to identify and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
To effectively combat cyberbullying, therefore, there is an urgent need to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws and provisions. Law enforcement agencies must receive adequate training and resources to investigate cyberbullying cases promptly.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns should educate individuals about the consequences of cyberbullying and encourage reporting of online harassment.
Moreover, social media platforms play a crucial role in addressing cyberbullying by implementing robust policies and mechanisms to prevent and mitigate online harassment. Platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook must prioritise the safety and wellbeing of their users by swiftly responding to reports of cyberbullying and taking appropriate action against perpetrators.
In conclusion, cyberbullying poses a significant threat to individuals’ mental health and wellbeing. By strengthening law enforcement efforts, raising public awareness, and fostering collaboration with social media platforms, Nigeria can effectively combat cyberbullying and create a safer online environment for all.
Dr Shafi’i Hamidu wrote from Doha.
Twitter (X): @shafiihamidu
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