A Certified Cybercrime and Forensic Expert, Hon. Dr. Uzuegbu Uchechi Paul (CCFE), has condemned what he described as the reckless use of social media to spread false and defamatory allegations against former Abia State Governor, Theodore Ahamefule Orji.
In a statement titled “When Hatred and Recklessness Override Common Sense,” Dr. Uzuegbu said the deliberate circulation of unverified claims against public figures undermines responsible journalism, damages reputations and erodes public trust.
He referred to the case involving Nnachi Divine Mark Idume, who is currently remanded at the Afara Correctional Centre over allegations of publishing false claims on social media that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) uncovered billions of dollars, pre-written election results, ₦1 trillion worth of gold necklaces and hundreds of exotic vehicles at the residence of Theodore Orji.
According to Dr. Uzuegbu, such allegations, when unsupported by facts, amount to reckless misinformation capable of causing significant reputational damage to individuals and misleading the public.
He stressed that the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2025 (as amended) provides clear legal consequences for the deliberate dissemination of false information online, warning that freedom of expression does not extend to defamation or malicious falsehoods.
Dr. Uzuegbu noted that while digital platforms have expanded access to information, they also impose a responsibility on users to verify facts before publishing or sharing content.
“Freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but it is not absolute. Every social media user has a duty to ensure that information shared is accurate and does not unjustly damage the reputation of others,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to use social media responsibly, emphasizing that hatred, malice and recklessness should never override truth, fairness and common sense.
The forensic expert concluded that social media should serve as a platform for education and constructive engagement rather than a tool for character assassination, warning that those who knowingly spread falsehoods risk facing legal sanctions under Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
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