By Nigeria — AfrikTimes has monitored multiple cases of cyberbullying in Nigeria in 2026, particularly on social media platforms such as Twitter, where individuals have sent messages or shared material online that threatens, harasses, intimidates, or offends others.
Cyberbullying is classified as a criminal offence in Nigeria under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention ) Act, 2015. The Act defines cyberbullying as sending messages, posting content, or sharing material through digital systems with the intent to cause harm, distress, or intimidation to another person. The law applies to all forms of online harassment, including repeated messages, threats, offensive content, and actions that intimidate or alarm recipients. Individuals found guilty of committing cyberbullying may be subjected to legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides the legal framework for addressing cyberbullying offences. Section 39 guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to freedom of expression and the press, including the right to hold opinions and impart information. Section 45 permits restrictions on these rights when reasonably justifiable in a democratic society to protect public safety, public order, or the rights of others. These provisions allow authorities to prosecute acts of cyberbullying, harassment, or intimidation that violate criminal law, even when committed online.
Monitoring conducted by AfrikTimes in 2026 shows multiple cases where individuals have been reported to law enforcement authorities for online conduct falling within the definition of cyberbullying under the Cybercrimes Act. Investigations and prosecutions are carried out in accordance with both the Cybercrimes Act and the constitutional provisions that authorize limitations on freedom of expression where it infringes on the rights of others or violates the law.
Penalties for individuals found guilty include imprisonment and fines as stipulated in the law. The Constitution provides the overarching legal authority for prosecuting cyberbullying offences while ensuring that all legal processes follow due procedure.
The monitoring of cyberbullying in 2026 confirms that acts of online harassment, threats, and intimidation are treated as criminal offences under Nigerian law. The Cybercrimes Act, together with constitutional provisions, establishes the legal framework for handling such offences. All investigations, arrests, and prosecutions are conducted in accordance with these legal instruments.
