At the core of the legal battle lies a pressing concern: the amended Cybercrimes Act is being weaponized to stifle freedom of expression and infringe on human rights. According to SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the Act contains provisions that are “vague, arbitrary, and repressive,” giving authorities unchecked power to silence activists, journalists, bloggers, and social media users.

A History of Controversy

This isn’t the first time Nigeria's cybercrime laws have come under fire. Back in 2022, the ECOWAS Court condemned Section 24 of the original Cybercrimes Act 2015, calling it “arbitrary, vague, and repressive.” The court demanded its repeal, citing a violation of Nigeria’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

While the controversial Section 24 was eventually repealed, SERAP argues that the amended 2024 version remains deeply flawed. The organization highlights Section 24(1)(b), which vaguely criminalizes actions that “cause a breakdown of law and order” without clear definitions or guidelines.

Why This Matters

SERAP insists that the ambiguity of these provisions makes them a threat to freedom of expression, information, and press freedom. By keeping the language deliberately unclear, the law grants authorities sweeping powers to punish dissent and restrict legitimate speech, undermining Nigeria's democratic principles.

This lawsuit is a critical test for Nigeria’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring that laws designed to combat cybercrime are not used as tools of oppression.

Keep an eye on this developing story as SERAP’s case unfolds at the ECOWAS Court, with implications that could shape the future of freedom of expression and human rights in Nigeria.