SOCIAL MEDIA FACILITATED CYBERCRIMES IN NIGERIA AND THE CHALLENGES OF LEGAL ENFORCEMENT

Abstract

The proliferation of social media platforms in Nigeria has transformed communication, networking, and business. However, alongside these benefits is the exploitation of these platforms by cybercriminals for fraudulent activities, identity theft, phishing, and other cybercrimes. This paper critically examines the role of social media in facilitating cybercrime in Nigeria, investigating the platforms used, common methods of cyberattacks, socio-economic motivations, and the limitations of legal and institutional frameworks. It also evaluates responses from law enforcement agencies and the efficacy of existing cybersecurity legislation. Using a doctrinal approach, the study advocates for a multi-stakeholder response involving regulatory reforms, digital literacy, and transnational cooperation. It recommends for the strengthening of the existing legislative and regulatory frameworks through review of the Cybercrimes Act, 2015; constant education and enlightenment of the populace on the dangers of negative use of social media; inter-agency co-operation in the fight against crimes committed using the social media, among others.