society
Cybercrimes Act 2025: Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act Deepens Inequality, Experts Warn
Cybercrimes Act 2025:
Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act Deepens Inequality, Experts Warn.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by Sahara Weekly NG
Introduction
The Federal Government’s passage of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024, now operational in 2025, heralds entrenched contradictions. On paper, the legislation aims to bring digital order and curb online abuses. In reality, however, it magnifies inequality.
Sections criminalizing online harassment (Section 22—mirroring earlier codifications in Section 24 of the 2015 Act) and publishing false or misleading information (Section 19) are presented as noble tools for accountability. When viewed through the lens of enforcement, the story changes: the poor (politically powerless, digitally exposed and legally unprotected) shoulder the blunt force of this law, while the elite effortlessly slip through its cracks.
This is not merely a legal dilemma; it is a question of justice, class and democracy in the digital age.
Part I: What the Law Prescribes.
Online Harassment and Abuse – Section 22
Under the new law, posting rude, vulgar, offensive or indecent content with intent to embarrass or humiliate others is an offense punishable by up to 2years’ imprisonment.
This is not entirely new. The Cybercrime Act of 2015 had already addressed similar conduct under Section 24 (1), which criminalized sending “grossly offensive, pornographic, indecent, obscene or menacing” messages or false communications intended to cause “annoyance, inconvenience, danger, insult or needless anxiety.” The penalty then was 3years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to ₦7 million.
Publishing False or Misleading Information – Section 19
The new provision explicitly targets “fake news.” Anyone who spreads deliberately false or misleading content online now faces up to 2years in prison.
While the intent is to protect society from deception, vague definitions leave room for abuse. What exactly constitutes “FALSE” information in a country where government officials frequently contradict themselves? Whose truth becomes the standard?
Part II: Enforcement and Inequality.
A Resource Gap.
Cybercrime is undeniably a global threat. INTERPOL’s 2025 Africa Cyberthreat Assessment shows cybercrime now constitutes more than 30% of reported crimes in some African states. Yet, 90% of African nations (including Nigeria) admit they lack the training, tools and prosecutorial capacity to handle such sophisticated threats.
Nigeria does have the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center (NPF-NCCC), which engages in awareness and coordination. The reality is that prosecutions remain sporadic, selective and unequal.
Selective Prosecution
The elite are shielded. Politically connected individuals can hire top lawyers, secure injunctions and navigate courts to avoid consequences.
For the poor, however, the law is deadly literal. A tweet born out of frustration, a WhatsApp broadcast or even a Facebook comment can be twisted into a criminal indictment. Without access to competent legal representation, many are left at the mercy of magistrates and police officers.
The Digital Divide.
Nigeria now boasts over 152 million active internet users. Yet digital literacy remains low. Millions of Nigerians are active online without a clear understanding of the risks posed by the law.
The elite enjoy the privilege of education and access. They know how to carefully word criticism, disguise satire or even hire digital strategists. The poor (especially those posting in anger, in indigenous languages or with limited education) become easy prey.
Thus, the Cybercrimes Act, instead of being an equalizing force, has deepened digital classism.
Part III: Expert Perspectives.
Several respected voices have raised alarms about the trajectory of Nigeria’s cyber legislation:
“The Cybercrimes Act’s broad language, especially its vague definitions of ‘false information,’ ‘cyberstalking,’ and ‘harassment,’ threatens free expression and open digital discourse.”
“The Act remains insufficient in shielding Nigerian citizens from arbitrary criminalization of online expression. Reform grounded in clarity, proportionality and accountability is not only necessary, but urgent.”
“Cybercrime continues to outpace the legal systems designed to stop it. 95% of countries report inadequate training, resource constraints and lack of access to specialized tools.”
These insights underscore the real crisis: misaligned priorities. Instead of investing in capacity to tackle fraud, identity theft and large-scale scams that tarnish Nigeria’s reputation globally, the government prioritizes criminalizing insult, dissent and satire.
Part IV: The Blunt Truth.
This law, stripped of diplomatic language, is crafted to suppress, not protect.
Weaponized Vagueness
Its ambiguous language is a prosecutorial dream but a citizen’s nightmare. Terms like “OFFENSIVE” and “FALSE” are inherently subjective. What offends one politician may simply be satire or truth to the masses.
Enforcement Inequality
Justice in Nigeria is not blind; it peeks. The poor, voiceless and resourceless, face the full fury of the law, while the elite maneuver their way out.
State Surveillance over Protection.
This legislation expands state power rather than defending citizens. By criminalizing broad categories of speech, it grants government a blank check to silence critics under the guise of law.
Blinding Hypocrisy.
Nigeria loses billions annually to cybercrime syndicates; international scams, fraudulent wire transfers and phishing attacks. Yet, instead of focusing on dismantling these sophisticated networks, the government invests energy in jailing youths for Facebook insults.
Cultural and Class Bias.
Nigeria is a multilingual nation. Satirical or colloquial expression in Pidgin, Hausa, Yoruba or Igbo is more likely to be misinterpreted as “ABUSE” by law enforcement steeped in formal English. Thus, class and language again shape how the law is applied.
End Note: A Call for Reform.
Nigeria’s 2025 Cybercrimes Act, birthed from the 2015 foundation, is not the protective shield it claims to be. It is a blunt instrument used less to fight genuine cybercriminals and more to muzzle ordinary citizens.
Three urgent reforms are needed:
Transparency and Clarity: The law must define “HARASSMENT,” “FALSE INFORMATION,” and “OFFENSIVE CONTENT” with surgical precision, leaving no room for abuse.
Equitable Enforcement: Legal aid for the poor, digital literacy programs and clear prosecution guidelines are non-negotiable.
Democratic Oversight: Civil society and the judiciary must act as watchdogs, ensuring that these laws are not weaponized against free expression.
Without these safeguards, the Act will continue to serve as a tool of suppression, a digital whip for the powerless and a shield for the privileged.
The principle is simple yet profound: If laws are not applied equally, they cease to be justice. Nigeria must choose whether it seeks order through fairness or chaos through selective repression.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by Sahara Weekly NG
society
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) proudly announces the successful completion of the first edition of Hope Beyond the Walls 2026, a humanitarian initiative dedicated to restoring hope and freedom to deserving inmates.
Despite enormous challenges, financial pressure, emotional strain, and operational stress, the organization remained committed to its mission. Through perseverance, faith, and collective support, one inmate has successfully regained freedom a powerful reminder that hope is stronger than circumstance.
This milestone did not come easily.
Behind the scenes were weeks of coordination, advocacy, fundraising, documentation, and intense engagement. There were moments of uncertainty, but the determination to give someone a second chance kept the vision alive.
Today, the Association of Models gives heartfelt appreciation to all partners and sponsors, both locally and internationally, who stood with us mentally, financially, morally, and physically.
Special Recognition and Appreciation To:
Correctional Service Zonal Headquarters Zone A Ikoyi
Esan Dele
Ololade Bakare
Ify
Kweme
Taiwo & Kehinde Solagbade
Segun
Mr David Olayiwola
Mr David Alabi
PPF Zion International
OlasGlam International
Razor
Mr Obinna
Mr Dele Bakare (VOB International)
Tawio Bakare
Kehinde Bakare
Hannah Bakare
Mrs Doyin Adeyemi
Shade Daniel
Mr Seyi United States
Toxan Global Enterprises Prison
Adeleke Otejo
Favour
Yetty Mama
Loko Tobi Jeannette
MOSES OLUWATOSIN OKIKIADE
Moses Okikiade
(Provenience Enterprise)
We also acknowledge the numerous businesses and private supporters whose names may not be individually mentioned but whose contributions were instrumental in achieving this success.
Your generosity made freedom possible.
A CALL TO ACTION
Hope Beyond the Walls is not a one-time event. It is a movement.
There are still many deserving inmates waiting for a second chance individuals who simply need financial assistance, legal support, and advocacy to reunite with their families and rebuild their lives.
The Association of Models is therefore calling on:
Corporate organizations
Local and international sponsors
Philanthropists
Faith-based organizations
Community leaders
Individuals with a heart for impact
to partner with us.
Our vision is clear:
To secure the release of inmates regularly monthly, quarterly, or during special intervention periods through structured support and transparent collaboration.
HOW TO SUPPORT
Interested partners and supporters can reach out via
Social Media: Official Handles Hope In Motion
Donations and sponsorship inquiries are welcome.
Together, we can turn difficult stories into testimonies of restoration.
ABOUT AOMNGO
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) is a humanitarian driven organization committed to advocacy, empowerment, and social impact. Through projects like Hope Beyond the Walls, the organization works tirelessly to restore dignity and create opportunities for individuals seeking a second chance.
“When we come together, walls fall and hope rises.”
For media interviews, partnerships, and sponsorship discussions, please contact the Association of Models directly.
SENATOR ADEOLA YAYI REGISTERS 4000 JAMB CANDIDATES
In continuation of his educational support initiatives and following established tradition, Senator Solomon Adeola (APC,Ogun West) has successfully paid for and enrolled 4000 indigent students for the 2026 Joint Admission Matriculation Board(JAMB) examination.
According to a release e-signed and made available to members of the League of Yewa-Awori Media Practitioners (LOYAMP) by High Chief Kayode Odunaro, Media Adviser to Senator Adeola and shared with (your mediu), the programme financed by the senator under the “SEN YAYI FREE JAMB 2026” ended on Saturday , February 21, 2026, with a total of 4000 candidates successfully enrolled with their PINs provided.
Commenting on the success of the programme, Senator Adeola said the programme is another leg of his personal educational empowerment for indigent but brilliant citizens preparatory to his scholarship and bursary facilitation for tertiary education institutions’ students.
“As far as I can help it, none of our children will miss educational opportunities arising out of adverse economic predicament of their parents or guardians”, he stated.
Successful candidates cut across all the three senatorial districts of Ogun State with 2183 coming from Ogun West, 1358 coming from Ogun Central and 418 from Ogun East.
Some of the candidates that applied and are yet to get their PINs due wrong information supplied in their profiles and being underage as discovered by JAMB and other reasons are being further assisted to see the possibility of getting their PINs.
The Free JAMB programme of the Senator that has been running for years is well received by appreciative beneficiaries and their parents.
Alhaji Suara Adeyemi from Ipokia Local Government whose daughter successfully got her PIN in the programme said the Senator’s gesture was a welcome financial relief for his family at this period after payment of numerous school fees of other siblings of the beneficiary seeking admission to higher institution.
Also posting on the social media handle of the Senator, a beneficiary Mr. Henry Olaitan, from Odeda LGA said that he would have missed doing the entry examination as his guardian cannot afford the fees for himself and two of his children.
House Committee Seeks Stronger Financial Backing for Federal Character Commission
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has reassured the commitment of her new leadership to reposition the Commission and strengthen enforcement of the federal character principle, despite prevailing funding challenges.
Hon. Omidiran made this known during the Commission’s budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character at the National Assembly on Friday, February 19, 2026.
The Executive Chairman opened up on inadequate funding has continued to constrain the Commission’s statutory activities, including nationwide monitoring, compliance audits and enforcement measures across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“We are focused and determined to do the work that the Constitution and the President have entrusted us with,” Omidiran stated.
The FCC Boss, however, assured lawmakers that the Commission remains resolute in ensuring equity, fairness and balanced representation in line with its constitutional mandate.
“As a Commission, it is our responsibility to engage with relevant government parastatals and ministries to secure the necessary funding we require. We believe that with consultation and collaboration, it will be a successful venture for the Commission.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character, RT. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, expressed deep concern over what he described as near-zero budgetary allocation to the Commission, stressing that such financial inadequacies severely undermine its operational effectiveness.
The Plateau State lawmaker assured the Commission of the Committee’s firm legislative backing in advocating for improved funding and strengthening the Commission’s capacity to fully exercise its constitutional mandate.
“We cannot reasonably expect the Federal Character Commission to enforce compliance across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies while grappling with insufficient funding,” Hon. Wase remarked.
“If we are genuinely committed to fairness, equity, and national cohesion, then we must be deliberate in adequately funding the institution established to safeguard these principles.
“As a Committee, we shall work closely with the leadership of the Commission to ensure that its budgetary provisions reflect the magnitude of its mandate. The era of skeletal or token funding must give way to realistic and sustainable financial support,” he concluded.
The budget defence session concluded on a note of renewed collaboration between the House of Representatives and the Commission, reflecting a shared determination to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance accountability, and promote equitable representation within Nigeria’s public service.
SIGNED:
Ademola Lawrence
Spokesperson,
Federal Character Commission
February 20, 2026
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