The police will start clamping down on Nigerians who rain curses on government officials and others on social media platforms, thre*tening to prosecute and jail them.
The Force Headquarters issued the warning on Friday prohibiting Nigerians from accursing officials.
Chief police spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on X on Friday, said, “Raining direct curses on someone online is cyberb*llying, not expression of freedom or criticism. And cyberbullying, which is even different from defamation, is a criminal offence and punishable. Be guided.”
Senior lawyer Afe Babalola has been accused of orchestrating the arrest, brutalization, and detention of human rights activist Dele Farotimi by the Nigerian police over an alleged defamation incident on December 4. Reports indicate that Mr. Babalola directed the police to transport Mr. Farotimi on a grueling 334-kilometre road trip to Ekiti, which took over five hours.
This incident has drawn attention to Mr. Babalola’s dual legacy. While he is a prominent figure in Ekiti with significant influence—owning a university, employing thousands, and being celebrated with an annual Afe Babalola Day on October 19—he also donated millions of British pounds to advance human rights and education for African students at King’s College, London, just over a year ago.
The contrast between his philanthropic efforts and his alleged involvement in suppressing dissent has sparked widespread public debate. Would you like to explore the reactions or legal aspects surrounding this matter?