An Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has warned social media users of the consequences of intentional defamation and cyberbullying in the country.
Olajengbesi stated that defamation and cyberbullying are crimes offences that attract legal consequences.
He, therefore, asked those engaging the practice to desist from such acts.
According to him, cyberbullying is a serious offense that can endanger lives.
In a statement, Olajengbesi stated this in a statement obtained by newsmen in Abuja.
He, however, urged his colleagues to normalize the idea of offering advice on the adverse effects of defamation and cyberbullying.
He said, “This is an appeal to our colleagues and friends in the legal profession: let us normalize the idea of advising our clients about cyberbullying as a serious offense that can endanger lives.
“Many individuals are suffering and even dying from depression due to the impact of social media bullying.
“It is important to recognize that defamation can lead to both criminal and civil consequences. And understanding this requires a bit of enlightenment.
“As a legal practitioner committed to the decriminalization of freedom of speech in Nigeria, I am concerned that we often overlook the limits of this freedom.”
Recall that the Federal Government has signed the cybercrime Act in law.
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