Nigeria’s National Assembly has passed the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2025. The law is now fully enforceable across the country.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the charge, describing the law as a “game-changer” to tackle “evolving threats in Nigeria’s digital space.”
But while the government says it wants to curb cybercrime, critics warn the law could be used to silence free speech.
What the Law Covers—and Punishes
The new law targets a wide range of digital offenses. Unauthorized access to devices—like hacking someone’s phone or laptop—now carries up to five years in prison.
Tampering with digital data without permission also attracts a five-year sentence. Sharing sensitive or classified information could land offenders in jail for 15 years.
Recording private conversations without consent risks two years in prison. The same punishment applies to spreading fake news or posting offensive content meant to humiliate.
The harshest penalty—life imprisonment—is reserved for those who incite ethnic, religious, or tribal hatred online.
Online group administrators, including those managing WhatsApp, Facebook, or Telegram groups, can also be held liable for illegal content if they fail to moderate properly.
“Admins must actively moderate their platforms and enforce community guidelines. Ignorance or negligence will not be an acceptable defense,” the government warned.
Supporters Applaud, Critics Raise Alarm
Supporters say the law will strengthen Nigeria’s digital security, protect businesses, and reduce fraud. The National Anti-Cybercrime League Task Force called it a major step forward.
The government insists citizens must comply. “Ignorance of the law is no excuse,” it stated.
But critics, including the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), say the law could be misused to target journalists, activists, and dissenting voices.
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria also weighed in. “The Act aims to fight fraud and cyber attacks, but some use it to curb dissent,” it said.
Recent cases, like the arrest of social media influencer VeryDarkMan for alleged online harassment, have raised fresh concerns about how the law is being enforced.
Digital Growth vs Free Expression
Nigeria’s digital economy is expanding rapidly. From fintech to e-commerce, online platforms are reshaping business and communication.
But critics argue that the new law may scare off foreign investors and push users to self-censor. That could stifle creativity and limit open dialogue.
The law also raises questions about privacy, surveillance, and the role of government in regulating speech.
Will Nigerians adapt to these strict rules, or will widespread prosecutions follow? And at what point does censorship, even if disguised as digital safety, encroach on the cherished constitutionally granted freedom of speech of Nigerians? Comment.Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article and join us on our social media handles. You can also Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
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