How Nigeria’s Laws Empower Businesses to Silence Consumers
A mother cried for help after she flagged violent content in her child’s textbook and faced threats and police questioning. She says publishers harassed her and intimidated her contacts. This isn’t an isolated case. Critics like Love Dooshima and Chioma Okoli have been sued for defamation or charged under cyberstalking laws. Okoli even lost her pregnancy amid a prolonged legal battle. Experts point to criminal defamation and broad cyberstalking provisions as the problem. They say these laws let brands weaponise the police and drag critics into costly court cases—a tactic known as SLAPP. Reform proposals include decriminalising defamation, introducing anti-SLAPP measures, and directing consumer complaints to regulators instead of police. Nigerians are urged to lobby lawmakers and know their rights when reviewing products.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.