society
It’s Time to Decriminalize Defamation in Nigeria
It’s Time to Decriminalize Defamation in Nigeria
In many societies, the boundaries between personal freedom of speech and the right to protect one’s reputation are carefully balanced. In Nigeria, however, defamation — whether slander or libel — remains a criminal offense, with severe consequences for those accused. It is time to reconsider this approach and shift towards decriminalizing defamation, making it a purely civil matter, as it is in many of the world’s major democracies.
The Case for Decriminalization
Criminal defamation laws were initially introduced to protect individuals from malicious harm to their reputation. However, in the modern era, they have often become tools of harassment and oppression, particularly in the hands of powerful individuals. Defamation cases are increasingly used by those in positions of power to silence critics, intimidate journalists, and subjugate less fortunate citizens.
Most developed nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and many European countries, have long abolished criminal defamation, opting instead for civil defamation laws. These countries focus on providing avenues for individuals who believe their reputation has been damaged to seek compensation through civil suits, rather than involving the police or criminal justice system.
The shift from criminal to civil defamation has allowed for a more balanced and equitable approach to handling reputation-related disputes. It ensures that individuals are not subjected to arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention, or unfair punishment for matters that could be resolved through civil litigation.
Abuse of Defamation Laws in Nigeria
In Nigeria, criminal defamation has been increasingly weaponized by those with influence and resources, particularly public figures and wealthy individuals. The cases of Erisco and Chioma, Burna Boy and Speed Darlington, and Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi are just a few examples of how the criminal defamation law has been allegedly misused to silence individuals and suppress free expression.
In some cases, complainants have filed petitions, often accusing someone of making a false or damaging statement. The response, instead of being a simple legal dispute, involves the police swooping in, arresting the accused, and whisking them away to distant locations. In many instances, these individuals are detained for weeks, sometimes months, without formal charges being brought against them. The sheer inconvenience and trauma caused by these actions are disproportionate to the alleged offense.
This practice has led to an alarming trend where those in power allegedly manipulate the legal system to punish those who dare to question or criticize them. Defamation, in these cases, becomes a tool not for justice, but for maintaining control and suppressing free speech.
The Role of the Police
One of the most troubling aspects of criminal defamation is the involvement of the police in what should essentially be a private dispute. Defamation is, at its core, a disagreement about reputation, a civil matter between two parties. The idea that the police should be involved in arresting individuals over “he said, she said” disputes is deeply problematic.
When the police are called upon to investigate defamation claims, it opens the door to manipulation and potential abuse of power. Arresting someone over an alleged defamatory statement, often based on little more than the complainant’s word, is an unjust use of law enforcement resources. The police, who should be focused on public safety and crime prevention, are instead drawn into disputes that are better suited for civil courts.
It is essential to understand that defamation, like other civil matters, can be addressed through appropriate legal channels without the need for criminal intervention. If someone feels they have been defamed, they should have the right to sue for damages in a court of law. There is no need to escalate the matter into a criminal issue, nor should the police be involved in what is essentially a civil grievance.
A Call for Legal Reform
To move forward, Nigeria must revisit its stance on defamation and adopt a system that encourages civil litigation rather than criminal prosecution. This would align the country with international standards, reduce the abuse of power by the elite, and safeguard individuals’ rights to free speech and expression.
The time has come to shift the focus from punitive measures to restorative justice, where victims of defamation can seek compensation and where the police are not burdened with trivial civil matters. Such a reform would not only make the legal system more just and fair but also restore the integrity of our justice system, ensuring that it serves the public rather than protecting the interests of the powerful few.
society
Stakeholders Seek Urgent Reforms to Tackle Youth Unemployment at disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit
Stakeholders Seek Urgent Reforms to Tackle Youth Unemployment at disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit
By Ifeoma Ikem
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have called for urgent and scalable solutions to address the rising rate of youth unemployment, stressing the need for strengthened technical education and increased collaboration with the private sector to bridge existing skills gaps.
The call was made at the disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit 2026, a one-day leadership forum held at the University of Lagos, where participants examined the growing disconnect between education outcomes and labour market demands.
The summit brought together education leaders, private sector operators and development advocates to promote adaptive learning, practical skills acquisition and innovative financing models for Africa’s education sector.
Experts at the summit strongly advocated increased investment in technical and vocational education, noting that training programmes must reflect current industry realities and evolving labour market needs.
Speakers emphasised that Nigeria’s education system, particularly at the tertiary level, must urgently shift from certificate-driven learning to skills-based and experiential education aligned with global best practices.
Among the speakers were Deby Okoh, Regional Manager at Brunel University of London; Ashley Immanuel, Chief Operating Officer of Semicolon; Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation; and education advocate, Adetomi Soyinka.
The speakers highlighted the importance of continuous learning, teacher retraining and comprehensive curriculum reform to meet the demands of an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
They stressed that apprenticeship programmes, internships and hands-on training should be fully integrated into academic curricula, noting that over-reliance on theoretical qualifications has widened the employability gap among graduates.
In his remarks, Mr Tosin Adebisi, Director of EduKate Africa and convener of the summit, said the event was designed to challenge what he described as the education sector’s rigid attachment to outdated methods.
Adebisi said innovation must remain central to education reform, adding that stakeholders must rethink teaching methods, learning processes and approaches to solving challenges such as access to education, financing and employability.
He expressed confidence that sustainable solutions could be achieved through strong collaboration across education, private sector and development institutions.
Adebisi, alongside co-Director Mr Francis Omorojie, said the summit aimed at connecting stakeholders working across sectors to close existing skills and opportunity gaps for young people.
The summit also urged parents and educators to promote lifelong learning, critical thinking and adaptability among young people, stressing that education systems must evolve in line with global economic trends.
No fewer than 200 students from the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Ojo, and other institutions participated in the summit, which was initially expected to host the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.
In a welcome address, Prof. Olufemi Oloyede of the University of Lagos emphasised the need to shape young minds through innovation and positive thinking, noting that Africa’s development depends on the strategic use of its human and natural resources, as well as a shift towards creativity and innovation among youths.
Turning Point: Dr. Chris Okafor Resumes with Fresh Fire of the Spirit
-Steps onto the Grace Nation Pulpit After a Month-Long Honeymoon Retreat with Renewed Supernatural Power
By Sunday Adeyemi
The much-anticipated February 1, 2026 “Turning Point” service of Grace Nation has come and gone, but its impact remains deeply etched in the hearts of Grace Nation citizens across the world. The significance of the day was unmistakable—it marked the official return of the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Dr. Chris Okafor, to active ministerial duty as the Set Man of the commission.
The date was particularly symbolic, as Dr. Okafor had taken close to one month away from the pulpit following his wedding late last year. The period served not only as a honeymoon but also as a season of rest, reflection, and intimate fellowship with God in preparation for a greater spiritual assignment ahead.
The atmosphere at Grace Nation was electric as the Generational Prophet and his wife were received with a heroic welcome, accompanied by prophetic praise, joyful dancing, and fervent prayers. It was a celebration of return, renewal, and readiness.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Chris Okafor declared that he had returned to fully pursue the mandate God entrusted to him—winning souls for the Kingdom of God. He issued a strong warning to the kingdom of darkness, stating that light and darkness cannot coexist. According to him, the season ahead would witness intensified spiritual engagement, as the Kingdom of God advances and the forces of darkness lose ground.
“This time,” the Generational Prophet affirmed, “it will be total displacement of darkness, as the light of God shines brighter than ever.”
The Message: Turning Point
Delivering a powerful sermon titled “Turning Point,” Dr. Okafor explained that a turning point is defined as a moment when a decisive and beneficial change occurs in a situation. He emphasized that such moments are often preceded by battles.
According to him, battles do not necessarily arise because one is doing wrong, but because God desires to reveal His power and teach vital lessons through them. Every genuine battle, he noted, carries divine involvement and purpose.
Addressing the question “Why must I fight a battle?” Dr. Okafor explained that individuals who carry extraordinary grace often encounter greater challenges. “When you carry what others do not carry,” he said, “the battles that come your way are usually bigger.”
Characteristics of a Turning Point
The Generational Prophet highlighted that when a person is firmly rooted in God, no storm can uproot them. A strong spiritual foundation ensures that no battle can shake one’s destiny. He explained that prayer does not eliminate battles, but preparation through prayer guarantees victory on the evil day.
“Battles push you into your turning point when you are rooted in the Spirit,” he stated, adding that a prayerful life is essential for sustained victory and elevation.
A Supernatural Service
The Turning Point service witnessed an extraordinary move of the Holy Spirit in a fresh dimension. Deliverance, healings, miracles, restoration, and diverse testimonies filled the atmosphere as worshippers encountered the power of God during the Sunday service.
In a related development, Dr. Chris Okafor officially commissioned the ultra-modern church restaurant, Fourthman Foodies, dedicating it to God for the benefit and use of Grace Nation citizens worldwide.
The February 1 service has since been described by many as a defining moment—one that signals a new spiritual season for Grace Nation Global. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1B2Eh6B6wo/
Sunday Adeyemi is a Lagos-based journalist and society writer. He writes from Lagos.
Adron Homes Hails Ondo State at 50, Celebrates Legacy of Excellence
The Chairman, Board of Directors, Management, and staff of Adron Group have congratulated the Government and people of Ondo State on the celebration of its 50th anniversary, describing the milestone as a significant chapter in Nigeria’s federal history and a testament to visionary leadership, resilience, and purposeful development.
In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the Golden Jubilee, Adron Group noted that since its creation in 1976, Ondo State has consistently distinguished itself as a centre of honour, intellect, and enterprise. Fondly referred to as The Sunshine State, the state has produced generations of outstanding professionals, administrators, and national leaders whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
According to the company, the strength of Ondo State lies not only in its rich cultural heritage and intellectual depth, but also in the values of integrity, diligence, and excellence that define its people. These qualities, Adron noted, have remained the bedrock of the state’s enduring relevance and national impact over the past five decades.
Adron Group further commended the state’s renewed drive in recent years towards infrastructure development, economic diversification, industrial growth, and youth empowerment, describing these initiatives as indicators of a forward-looking, inclusive development agenda anchored in sustainability and long-term prosperity.
“As a corporate organisation committed to nation-building and sustainable development, Adron Group recognises Ondo State as a strategic partner in progress,” the statement read. “We commend His Excellency, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Executive Governor of Ondo State, and the leadership of the state at all levels for their dedication to public service and their commitment to the advancement of the people.”
As Ondo State marks its Golden Jubilee, Adron Group joined millions of well-wishers in celebrating a legacy of excellence, strength of character, and promise, while expressing optimism that the next fifty years will usher in greater milestones in economic vitality, social advancement, innovation, and enduring peace.
The company concluded by wishing the Government and people of Ondo State continued progress and prosperity, adding that the Sunshine State remains well-positioned to shine even brighter in the years ahead.
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