National Assembly Passes New Cybercrime Law Under Akpabio’s Leadership
- Metro Plus
- 24.08.2025
- No Comment
- 91
Finally, the Cyber new law that the National Assembly led by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio is finally passed.
This landmark legislation seeks to address the growing threats of cyber fraud, identity theft, financial scams, and other forms of online criminal activities that have continued to plague the nation in recent years.
the digital landscape has increasingly become vulnerable.
Previous attempts to strengthen cybercrime legislation were often criticized as being outdated or lacking proper enforcement mechanisms. The passage of this new law, however, signals a stronger determination by the legislature to
align Nigeria’s legal system with global best practices in cybersecurity.
- Stricter Penalties: The law introduces heavier punishments for internet fraudsters, ranging from fines to long-term imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.
- Regulation of Digital Transactions: Online financial platforms are mandated to adopt stronger verification and monitoring systems to prevent fraud.
- Cybersecurity Agencies: The law empowers the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant agencies with broader authority to investigate and prosecute offenders.
- Data Protection: Individuals and organizations are now better protected against identity theft and misuse of personal data.
- International Collaboration: Nigeria will collaborate more effectively with international agencies to trace and prosecute cybercriminals across borders.
remain vulnerable to cyberattacks that erode investor confidence and tarnish the nation’s image abroad.
According to Akpabio, the new law balances the need for security with the protection of citizens’ digital rights, ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate within clear legal boundaries.
Technology experts and fintech operators have welcomed the bill, noting that it will strengthen investor confidence in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
However, some civil society groups have cautioned against potential abuse of the law, warning that strict oversight is needed to ensure it is not used to target journalists, activists, or critics of the government.
Financial institutions have also expressed optimism that the law will help reduce the billions of naira lost annually to cyber fraud, while encouraging more citizens to adopt online banking and e-commerce safely.
The legislation is also seen as a necessary tool to support Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a digital hub in Africa, especially with the government’s continuous push for a cashless economy and digital transformation initiatives.
If properly implemented, the law will not only reduce cyber fraud but also create safer online spaces for businesses, students, and everyday internet users.
While the law presents new opportunities for securing the nation’s digital space, its effectiveness will ultimately depend on implementation, enforcement, and the balance between security and freedom of expression.
As Nigeria steps into a new era of cyber governance, the world will be watching to see how the law reshapes its digital future.
LEGAL NOTICE – 2025 CYBERCRIMES ACT NOW IN FORCE
The Federal Government has officially enacted the Cybercrimes Bill into law, meaning all provisions contained in the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) acts are now fully enforceable and binding across the country.
Everyone especially online users, content creators, and administrators of digital platforms or social media groups must take note of the following key provisions:
Key Offenses Under the Cybercrimes Act:
1. Unauthorized Access to Devices – Section 3:
Gaining access to someone else’s phone, computer, or digital device without their permission is a criminal offense.
🛑 Punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
2. Tampering with Data – Section 4:
Modifying, deleting, obstructing, or interfering with another person’s digital data without lawful authority is illegal.
🛑 Punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
3. Disclosure of Critical Information – Section 5:
Sharing classified, sensitive, or “critical information infrastructure” with unauthorized persons is a serious offense.
🛑 Punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment.
4. Recording Private Conversations – Section 10:
Recording private discussions without proper authorization, *even if you are a participant*, violates privacy laws.
🛑 Punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment.
5. Publishing False or Misleading Information – Section 19:
Spreading fake news or publishing content that is deliberately misleading or deceptive is a criminal act.
🛑 Punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment.
6. Online Harassment and Abuse – Section 22:
Posting content that is rude, vulgar, offensive, or indecent, especially with the intent to embarrass or humiliate others, is an offense.
🛑 Punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment.
7. Inciting Ethnic Hatred or Division – Section 24:
Attempting to provoke ethnic, religious, or tribal hatred through online or offline statements amounts to domestic terrorism.
🛑 Punishable by life imprisonment.
Note that if you are an Administrator of a WhatsApp Group, Facebook Page, Telegram Channel, or Any Other Online Community
You can be held liable for the content shared by members if you knowingly allow illegal content to be posted or fail to moderate appropriately. As such, always monitor your groups, enforce community guidelines, and avoid circulating unverified or inflammatory content.
Stay Legally Protected
Ignorance of the law is no excuse. In this digital age, it is essential to understand and comply with the provisions of the Cybercrimes Act to avoid prosecution. Be responsible with your digital activities, and protect your legal and personal reputation.
