Legal Expert Calls for Tougher Laws to Fight Fake news

Muhuyi Rimingado, a former chairman of the Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission, has urged Nigeria to enact tougher legislation and implement effective regulation to combat the growing problem of fake news and misinformation.

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Fake news can be prosecuted under existing legal frameworks because false information is recognised as an offence under the law.

Rimingado, a legal practitioner, explained that while Nigeria possesses legal frameworks capable of prosecuting the spread of false information, current laws do not specifically or comprehensively address fake news in the context of digital communication and social media platforms. He noted that the Penal Code in Northern Nigeria and the Criminal Code in Southern Nigeria both contain provisions against publishing false information.

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However, there is no specific legislation that directly addresses fake news as a distinct crime, especially in relation to social media platforms and digital communication.

However, he stressed the need for new legislation tailored to the challenges posed by platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Rimingado suggested that future laws should extend responsibility beyond individuals to the companies that host such content. He proposed that these platforms could be compelled to issue apologies or take responsibility when their services are used to disseminate dangerous falsehoods.

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We need legislation that will specifically take care of fake news. The law should not only focus on individuals but also on the companies providing the platforms.

While acknowledging that laws like the Cybercrimes Act address some online offenses, Rimingado argued they do not fully encompass the broader issue of fake news. He warned that the unchecked abuse of freedom of expression can lead to personal attacks and the circulation of misleading information. The legal expert emphasized that robust legal instruments and impartial enforcement are crucial to making people understand the consequences of spreading false information, advocating for a balance between freedom of expression and protecting society from harmful misinformation.

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In appropriate cases, such companies should be compelled to issue apologies or take responsibility where their platforms are used to spread dangerous falsehoods.