...Urges Social Media Influencers, Bloggers to Communicate Responsibly
The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has declared that the era of cyberstalking and online bullying in Nigeria is over, warning social media users to operate within the ambit of the law.
Speaking as a guest on Rize FM Radio, Warri, on Saturday, and at a separate media engagement, Dr. Oghenesivbe advised social media influencers, TikTokers, content creators, and new media practitioners to familiarize themselves with existing laws regulating online activities, stressing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
He explained that the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, remains Nigeria’s principal legislation for combating online fraud and cyber offenses, providing a robust legal framework for the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of cyber-related crimes.
According to him, the law covers offenses such as cyberstalking, internet fraud, unauthorized access to computer systems, and identity theft, and was enacted to protect individuals and the nation’s critical information infrastructure.
Dr. Oghenesivbe, who is also a legal practitioner, revealed that the forthcoming 6th edition of the Delta Strategic Communication Workshop (DELCOM 2025)—with the theme “Strategic Communication in the Digital Age: Leveraging on Artificial Intelligence for Effective Leadership”—will extensively discuss the Cybercrimes Act, libel, defamation, and the application of artificial intelligence and digital tools for effective information management.
He commended Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his visionary and pragmatic leadership, which, according to him, has enhanced the state’s economic growth, infrastructure, and human capital development.
The DG confirmed that Governor Oborevwori will declare the workshop open on Monday, October 6, with several dignitaries expected to attend, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; APC State Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu; Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji; Chief of Staff, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo; Chief Adviser to the Governor, Senator (Chief) Ighoyota Amori, PhD, among others.
“Cyberstalking and bullying can no longer thrive in Nigeria; it’s no longer business as usual. The Cybercrimes Act of 2015 is fully in force, and ignorance is not a defense,” Dr. Oghenesivbe stated.
He added that DELCOM 2025 will provide participants with a deeper understanding of the legal implications of online communication, equipping them to perform their duties responsibly and within the law.