The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, originally introduced as a law to combat cyber fraud and financial crimes, has now become one of the most dangerous weapons used by the Nigerian government to suppress free speech, silence dissent, and criminalize criticism of corrupt politicians. This law, rather than protecting the people, has become a crime against the masses. It has been twisted into an instrument of oppression, targeting journalists, activists, and everyday citizens who dare to challenge those in power.
The most controversial aspect of the Cybercrime Act is its vague and dangerous provision on “cyberstalking,” which is now used to arrest and detain critics of government officials. Under this section, people can be jailed for merely posting criticisms on social media. If you expose a corrupt politician, if you call out a failed government policy, or if you insult a political leader who has impoverished the masses, you can be arrested, denied bail, and thrown into prison for “cyberstalking.” This is a blatant attack on democracy and freedom of expression.
In a country where politicians steal billions while the people starve, should we be silent? Should we praise the criminals who loot our resources? Should we accept oppression without resistance? No! It is our fundamental right to speak out against injustice. It is our right to insult, criticize, and expose failed and corrupt leaders. A government that has failed its people should not expect respect; it should expect resistance!
This oppressive law has been used to arrest journalists like Agba Jalingo, who was detained for exposing corruption. Activists and citizens voicing their frustrations online have been picked up by security agents, denied their constitutional rights, and labeled as criminals for simply speaking out. Meanwhile, the real criminals—those who loot public funds, destroy infrastructure, and ruin the future of our youth—walk free with police escorts and state protection.
The Cybercrime Act is a threat to every Nigerian. Today, it is being used against activists and journalists, but tomorrow, it could be used against any ordinary citizen who posts an opinion that the government does not like. This is why we must demand its immediate repeal. The Nigerian people will not be silenced! The attempt to turn Nigeria into a police state, where only the rich and powerful can speak freely while the masses live in fear, will not succeed.
The struggle for freedom is not a crime. The struggle for justice is not a crime. Speaking against bad governance is not a crime. The real crime is the Cybercrime Act itself!
The people must rise and reject this draconian law. We must demand that the Cybercrime Act be repealed immediately. Nigeria belongs to the people, not to the corrupt elite. If we do not resist today, we will all become prisoners tomorrow.
