CYBERBULLYING: A SOCIAL RECURRENT MENACE

Cyberbullying is a modern form of harassment that has become prevalent due to the rise of digital platforms. In Nigeria, the growing access to the internet and social media has amplified the occurrence of cyberbullying. This article explores the nature of cyberbullying, its impacts, and the legal frameworks available in Nigeria to address this issue.

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying involves the use of digital technologies such as social media, messaging apps, and mobile phones to harass, threaten, or humiliate individuals. It has grown as a social problem in Nigeria, particularly as more people gain internet access. Cyberbullying can take many forms, including:

• Harassment: Sending repeated, offensive, or threatening messages.
• Defamation: Spreading false information or rumors to damage a person’s reputation.
• Cyberstalking: Unwanted and persistent surveillance or tracking of someone online.
• Impersonation: Creating fake profiles to deceive or harm others by pretending to be someone else.
• Outing and Trickery: Revealing someone’s secrets or tricking them into disclosing personal information.
• Exclusion: Deliberately excluding someone from online groups or activities.

Recognizing Cyberbullying

Identifying cyberbullying can be difficult, but there are clear signs. Victims may show:

• Avoidance of social activities or reluctance to use digital devices.
• Sudden mood changes, sleep disturbances, or changes in appetite.
• Decline in academic performance or loss of interest in school.
• Withdrawal from friends and activities they once enjoyed.

Legal Provisions Against Cyberbullying in Nigeria

Nigeria has enacted laws to address the growing issue of cyberbullying. Key provisions include:

• Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2015 and its 2024 amendment: This law criminalizes various cyber offenses, including cyberstalking, online harassment, and identity theft. Sections 21, 22, 24, 25, and 27 of the Act are particularly relevant:
• Section 21: Addresses cyber threats.
• Section 22: Covers identity theft, which includes impersonation in cyberbullying.
• Section 24: Focuses on cyberstalking and penalties for sending offensive or false information electronically.
• Section 25: Covers cybersquatting.
• Section 27: Addresses inchoate offenses linked to cyberbullying.
• Child Rights Act of 2003: Protects children from abuse, including online bullying. It stresses the importance of safeguarding children in digital environments.
• Criminal Code and Penal Code: Though not explicitly focused on cyberbullying, these codes indirectly criminalize the act through related offenses.

Impacts of Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying has severe emotional and social consequences. Its effects can be long-lasting and deeply damaging:

• Mental Health Issues: Victims often experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
• Emotional Distress: Feelings of embarrassment, shame, and hopelessness are common.
• Social Isolation: Cyberbullying can lead to withdrawal from social interactions and strained relationships.
• Academic Decline: Students affected by bullying may perform poorly due to stress and distraction.
• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach aches, and stress-related ailments often occur.
• Self-esteem Issues: Prolonged bullying can erode confidence, leading to a diminished sense of self-worth.

Consequences of Cyberbullying

• Legal Consequences: Perpetrators of cyberbullying can face fines, imprisonment, or both under Nigerian law.
• Reputational Damage: Both victims and perpetrators may suffer long-term reputational harm, affecting personal and professional relationships.

Resources Available in Nigeria

Several organizations and government agencies offer support to victims of cyberbullying:

• National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): Provides legal advice and assistance to victims of cyberbullying.
• Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit: Investigates cyberbullying complaints and other cybercrimes.
• NGOs and Support Groups: Organizations like Youth Health and Social Reform (YOHESOR) offer resources, advocacy, and support for victims.
• Educational Programs: Schools and community groups provide programs to educate the public about responsible internet use and cyberbullying prevention.

How to Address Cyberbullying

To effectively combat cyberbullying, individuals and communities must adopt a multi-faceted approach:

• Education and Awareness: Promoting understanding of cyberbullying and its consequences is essential. Educational programs should inform both young people and adults about responsible online behavior.
• Promoting Empathy and Respect: Fostering kindness in online interactions can help reduce the incidence of cyberbullying.
• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue between parents, teachers, and children about their online experiences helps detect cyberbullying early.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Providing clear instructions on reporting cyberbullying to social media platforms, authorities, and support organizations.
• Support Systems: Offering counseling services to help victims cope with emotional trauma.
• Legal Recourse: Ensuring that victims are aware of their legal rights and can access justice through the legal system.

What to Do if You’re Being Cyberbullied

If you or someone you know is being cyberbullied, here are steps to take:
Do not Respond or Retaliate as this might escalate the situation.
Save the Evidence: Keep screenshots or records of the bullying messages.
Block the Bully: Use the platform’s features to quickly block the bully.
Report the Behavior: Report the bullying to the platform or website where it occurred as well as to the appropriate enforcement agency.
Tell a Trusted Adult: Seek support from a parent, teacher, or counselor.
Seek Professional Help: Consider counseling or therapy if the bullying is causing severe
distress.

Conclusion

Cyberbullying in Nigeria is a pressing issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to address effectively. By understanding the legal framework, recognizing the signs and implications, and utilizing available resources, individuals and communities can work together to create a safer and more supportive online environment for everyone. Through education, support, and legal measures, Nigeria can combat cyberbullying and protect its citizens from the harms of digital abuse.