Ondo State Police warn youths against cyberstalking, bullying
By Boye Oyeyemi –
The Ondo State Police Command has warned young Nigerians against engaging in cyberstalking and cyberbullying, describing both as serious criminal offences under Nigerian law.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olusola Ayanlade, stated this recently, while delivering a lecture on the Yemiefash Family online platform, where he spoke on the theme “Policing: A Collective Responsibility.”
DSP Ayanlade explained that the amended Cybercrime Act 2024 introduces stiffer penalties for a range of digital offences, including the creation of fake accounts, issuing threatening messages, and sharing unsolicited obscene content.
He noted that cyberstalking—defined as the use of texts, emails, or social media to harass or intimidate—carries legal consequences. He added that cyberbullying is similarly punishable under the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP).
The police spokesperson also identified other punishable online offences such as phishing, identity theft, child pornography, and the digital promotion of terrorism, all of which now attract heightened penalties under the law.
He further disclosed that individuals and organisations are now legally required to report cyberattacks within 72 hours or face fines starting from ₦2 million.
DSP Ayanlade emphasized that the responsibility to combat cybercrime lies not only with law enforcement but with all citizens. He warned that shielding offenders or neglecting to report cyber incidents contributes to rising insecurity.
He therefore urged internet users to act responsibly and collaborate with lawful authorities, stressing that a collective approach is essential to curbing digital crime and safeguarding public safety.
