Call for Enhanced Legislation to Tackle Fake News in Nigeria
Mufui Rimingado, the former chairman of the Kano State Public Prosecution and Anti-Corruption Commission, emphasizes the urgent need for stronger laws and regulations to address the escalating issue of fake news and misinformation in Nigeria.
During a recent telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Rimingado, a seasoned legal practitioner, outlined the existing legal frameworks that could be leveraged to prosecute those who disseminate false information. However, he noted that current laws fall short of specifically addressing the nuances of fake news in today’s digital landscape.
According to Rimingado, Nigeria’s criminal code does include provisions that criminalize the dissemination of false information; however, these regulations vary between regions. The northern criminal code contains measures specifically targeting false publications, while its southern counterpart includes corresponding sanctions for similar offenses.
He stated that while false information is indeed recognized as a crime, comprehensive legislation that distinctly classifies fake news, particularly in relation to social media platforms, is lacking. “Existing laws can be utilized to prosecute fake news under the broader framework of disinformation, yet a specific legal approach is needed to address the unique challenges posed by digital communications,” he explained.
Rimingado called for future legislation to not only target individuals responsible for spreading misinformation but also to hold digital platforms accountable for hosting such content. He proposed that these companies could be required to issue apologies or take responsibility when their platforms are used to propagate harmful falsehoods.
While the Cybercrime Act and related regulations attempt to address various online crimes, including cyberbullying and terrorism, Rimingado believes they do not sufficiently cover the pervasive issue of fake news. He warned that without legal repercussions, the unchecked freedom of expression could lead to increased attacks and the spread of misleading information.
“People will only comprehend the consequences of disseminating false information if robust legal instruments and compliant regulators are in place,” he asserted. Striking a balance between the right to free speech and the imperative to protect individuals and society from detrimental misinformation is essential, he added.
The legal expert also raised concerns regarding the rapid growth of information technology in Nigeria, which is not matched by adequate measures to mitigate emerging security risks. He pointed out that criminal activities like kidnapping for ransom are increasingly reliant on digital communication, underscoring the need for stronger responses to these evolving threats.
“States have not fully adapted to the digital reality,” Rimingado said, advocating for the establishment of dedicated cybercrime units within all security agencies to effectively combat technology-driven crimes and the proliferation of fake news. By bolstering legal frameworks and improving enforcement, he believes public trust can be restored, misinformation can be curtailed, and responsible usage of digital platforms can be promoted.
