- Calls for Responsible Online Expression Spark Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has issued a stern warning against the act of directing curses at individuals online, labeling it as cyberbullying and a criminal offense.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Adejobi clarified that using harsh and abusive language against others online is not protected under freedom of expression or legitimate criticism.
“Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberbullying, not expression of freedom or criticism,” Adejobi stated. “And cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offense and punishable. Be guided.”
The statement sparked a flurry of reactions from users on the platform. Felix Abayomi, tweeting as #felabayomi, challenged Adejobi’s position, asking, “When does raining curses become a crime? I look forward to the day someone will challenge these laws.”
In a more humorous take, another user, #kingkhone4real, commented, “If that were the case, then all Nigerians should have been in prison by now.”
On the other hand, some users supported Adejobi’s stance. A user identified as #omoopee_ wrote, “You are absolutely right, sir; raining curses and engaging in cyberbullying is not freedom of expression but an act of harm. We must all learn to express ourselves responsibly.”
The debate highlights the growing concern over cyberbullying and the thin line between free speech and harmful online conduct.
