By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced full enforcement of the amended Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, sending strong warnings to WhatsApp users, group administrators, and online content creators across the country.

The announcement, made on Tuesday, emphasizes the legal consequences of spreading false information, inciting violence, or failing to moderate digital platforms — including social media groups and forums.

Heavy Penalties Now in Force

Under the updated law, offenses such as cyberstalking, online fraud, identity theft, and the spread of fake news now attract steeper penalties, with some crimes carrying sentences of up to life imprisonment.

In a clear message, the FG stated that admins of WhatsApp and Facebook groups may be held criminally liable for harmful or illegal content posted within their groups — even if they did not author the message.

“Ignorance is no longer an excuse. Digital platform owners and users must take responsibility for the kind of content they promote,” a government official said during the press briefing.

Growing Concerns Over Free Speech

While the Act is designed to combat cybercrime and ensure national security, civil society organizations and legal experts have raised concerns over the vague wording of certain sections — particularly those addressing “offensive content” and “false information.”

Digital rights advocates warn that these provisions could be misused to suppress free speech, especially against journalists, bloggers, and political critics.

What Users Should Know

Nigerians are advised to:

Verify information before sharing on WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, or blogs

Monitor and moderate group activity as an admin

Avoid sharing content that could be seen as inciting hate, violence, or defamation

Stay updated on cybercrime laws and report suspicious online behavior

A Digital Wake-Up Call

The full activation of the Cybercrimes Act marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s efforts to regulate its digital space. Whether seen as a necessary control or a potential threat to expression, the message is clear: online actions now have real-world consequences.