CYBERBULLYING AND ONLINE HARRASSMENT: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF ICT LAWS AND POLICIES

Abstract

The advent of the internet and social media has transformed the way people interact and communicate. However, this increased connectivity has also given rise to cyberbullying and online harassment, which can have devastating consequences on individuals, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and women. Nigeria, with its growing online presence, is not immune to these problems. Despite the growing concern about cyberbullying and online harassment, there is a dearth of research on the effectiveness of existing ICT laws and policies in Nigeria in addressing these issues. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by critically examining the current ICT laws and policies in Nigeria and their implications for combating cyberbullying and online harassment. The study reveals that while Nigeria has made some efforts to address cyberbullying and online harassment through legislation and policy initiatives, there are significant gaps and challenges in the existing framework. The study highlights issues of inadequate regulation, lack of enforcement, and limited awareness and education about cyberbullying and online harassment. This study employs a doctrinal research methodology, involving a critical analysis of existing ICT laws and policies in Nigeria, as well as online literatures, newspapers, magazines and internet materials. The study concludes that Nigeria's existing ICT laws and policies are inadequate to effectively address the growing problem of cyberbullying and online harassment. The study highlights the need for a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to addressing these issues, including strengthened legislation, improved enforcement, and increased awareness and education. The study recommends the following: (a) review and amendment of existing ICT laws and policies to specifically address cyberbullying and online harassment (b) establishment of a national cyberbullying and online harassment reporting mechanism (c) development of public awareness and education campaigns to promote online safety and digital literacy; and (d) strengthening of law enforcement capacity to investigate and prosecute cyberbullying and online harassment cases.