The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has firmly condemned the growing trend of individuals directing curses at others on social media platforms, labeling such behavior as cyberbullying, which he insists is a criminal offense.
In a statement shared via X.com (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Adejobi emphasized that this type of online harassment goes beyond the boundaries of free speech or constructive criticism, calling it an act of harmful cyberbullying. According to Adejobi, while defamation and cyberbullying may seem similar, the latter is more severe, as it involves the direct targeting of individuals with abusive and malicious language.
“Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberbullying, not an expression of freedom or criticism. And cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offense and punishable. Be guided,” Adejobi posted.
The announcement stirred mixed reactions among social media users. Felix Abayomi, who tweets under the handle #felabayomi, challenged the statement, questioning when online cursing would officially be considered a crime. “When does raining curses become a crime? I look forward to the day someone will challenge these laws,” Abayomi wrote.
In contrast, another user, anonymously tweeting as #kingkhone4real, humorously remarked, “If that were the case, then all Nigerians should have been in prison by now,” suggesting that such behavior is widespread in the country.
However, many users expressed support for Adejobi’s position, with #omoopee_ joining in to agree, stating, “You are absolutely right, sir; raining curses and engaging in cyberbullying is not freedom of expression but an act of harm.”
The statement by the Nigeria Police Force’s spokesperson highlights the growing concerns around online conduct, urging Nigerians to be mindful of their actions on social media platforms and the potential legal consequences they may face.
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