Nigeria: Alleged Cyber-Bullying and Fake News Prompt IG to Order Clampdown on Individuals and Group

The Nigeria Police Force, led by Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, has taken a firm stance against the proliferation of fake news and cyberbullying, recognizing the significant threat these activities pose to national security and stability.

In a statement issued by Force headquarters titled "NPF Speaks Tough Against Fake News, Cyber Bullying; As Police Condemns Circulation of Old Content to Discredit System," the NPF unequivocally condemns the dissemination of fake news and cyberbullying. These actions are seen as direct assaults on the diligent efforts of law enforcement officers to maintain law and order within the country.

The statement highlights the malicious spread of old content and misinformation by certain individuals and groups across various online platforms, aimed at undermining public trust in the policing system. This dissemination of false information and cyberbullying is deemed criminal under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015, and other extant criminal laws.

The NPF emphasizes that such activities not only tarnish the reputation of the Force but also have the potential to incite fear and discord within the country. As a result, the NPF vows to take decisive action against those responsible for spreading fake news and engaging in cyberbullying.

To combat this alarming trend, the NPF has intensified its efforts to monitor and combat fake news and cyberbullying on online platforms. Inspector General Egbetokun has ordered the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) to clamp down on individuals and groups involved in spreading fake news and misinformation. Furthermore, all perpetrators found guilty of spreading false information or engaging in cyberbullying will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

The statement underscores the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and relevant authorities to swiftly and effectively address instances of fake news and cyberbullying. The NPF urges citizens to exercise caution and discernment when consuming and sharing information online, emphasizing the collective responsibility to uphold truth and integrity.

The statement highlights instances where individuals and groups have maliciously spread old content and misinformation across various online platforms to undermine public trust in the policing system. Fake news and cyberbullying, which are criminalized under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015, pose a threat not only to the reputation of the Force but also to the stability and safety of society.

In response to this alarming trend, the NPF is intensifying its efforts to combat fake news and cyberbullying by increasing vigilance and monitoring of online platforms. The NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has been directed to clamp down on individuals and groups spreading false information and engaging in cyberbullying, with the full support of the Inspector General.

Furthermore, the IGP has ordered that all perpetrators found spreading false information or engaging in cyberbullying be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The Police will collaborate closely with relevant authorities to ensure swift and appropriate legal action against offenders.

The statement calls upon all citizens to exercise caution and discernment when consuming and sharing information online, emphasizing the importance of standing united against the spread of misinformation and cyberbullying. The public is encouraged to report any instances of fake news or cyberbullying to the Police for prompt investigation and action.

Overall, the NPF's firm stance underscores its commitment to upholding truth and integrity in the face of threats posed by fake news and cyberbullying, with the aim of safeguarding national security and stability.