Cyberstalking is the use of
electronic communication to harass or intimidate someone and it encompass
behavior such as sending threatening emails, posting harmful messages on social
media, or tracking someone’s online activity without their consent.
Cyberstalking is a crime in Nigeria by Virtue of Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2015,
this law prohibits various cyber activities, including cyberstalking and
provides penalty for offenders. Before an offender can be found liable it must
be established that the messages or information shared are offensive, malicious,
menacing or falsely represent the identity of another person.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of a
socialist Martins Otse popularly known as VERY DARK MAN in connection with an
information shared some weeks ago about Nollywood actors ,Iyabo Ojo and Tonto
Dike pending the continuation of trial on May 29,2024 .The Punch Newspaper
reports that VDM pleaded not guilty to the charge.
LEGAL ISSUE : What is the Penalty for the
offence of Cyberstalking ,Section 24 provides the penalty for such offenses and
this is Three (3) years imprisonment or
fine of not more than Sven Million Naira (N7,000,000:00) or both. The offender may be ordered
to pay compensation to the victim of the Cyberstalking.
Conclusively, the onus is on the Victims, the police through substantial
evidence that the accused person is guilty of the offence as charged, in view
of this if VDM is found guilty ,he may be convicted for not more than three
years, fine or both and penalty maybe awarded to the actors in question where
they are able to establish damages against the accused.
Thank you.
Cremelawyer.