Nigerian lawyer, gender advocate, political commentator and feminist, Nana Fatima Bello, popularly known as NANS Bello, has called for stronger government intervention to tackle the growing menace of cyberbullying, describing online harassment as a serious threat to individuals and democratic participation.
Bello made the remarks while appearing as a guest on Political Arena, a current affairs programme on S24 Television, where she spoke as a legal expert on the increasing prevalence of cyberbullying and the need for stronger legal protections for victims.
Speaking during the interview, Bello said cyberbullying has become widespread across social media platforms, with many Nigerians facing intimidation, harassment and coordinated online attacks simply for expressing their opinions.
She disclosed that she has personally experienced online bullying and harassment because of her advocacy and public commentary on social issues.
According to her, some of her efforts to create awareness on important national issues have been misinterpreted by individuals who believe she is attacking their political leaders or influential figures.
“I have personally experienced cyberbullying and harassment simply because I spoke up on issues that mattered. Some people assumed I was against their political godfathers or certain politicians, even when my intention was only to raise awareness,” she said.
Bello noted that online harassment has evolved beyond insults to include more dangerous forms of abuse such as coordinated attacks, intimidation, threats and doxxing—the publication of an individual’s personal information online without consent.
She warned that such practices not only endanger victims but also discourage citizens from participating in public discourse.
The gender advocate stressed that cyberbullying should not be dismissed as a normal part of social media engagement, arguing that it has real psychological, emotional and security implications for victims.
She therefore urged the Federal Government to strengthen existing laws addressing cybercrime and online abuse while ensuring their effective implementation.
According to her, stronger enforcement mechanisms, greater public awareness and improved digital safety measures are essential to protecting citizens in the digital space.
She also called on relevant law enforcement agencies to take reports of online harassment more seriously and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
Bello said creating a safer digital environment would encourage more Nigerians, particularly women and young people, to participate freely in public conversations without fear of intimidation.
Beyond legal reforms, she appealed to social media users to embrace responsible online behaviour, respect differing opinions and reject hate speech, harassment and misinformation.
Speaking on Nigeria’s political future ahead of the 2027 general elections, Bello urged Nigerians to prioritise competence, integrity and credibility when choosing their leaders.
She encouraged citizens to vote beyond ethnic, religious and political sentiments, insisting that national interest should remain the overriding consideration at the polls.
“The future of Nigeria depends on the choices we make. We must elect credible leaders who will serve the people with honesty and accountability, regardless of political affiliations or personal biases,” she said.
She further called on political leaders to fulfil their responsibilities by promoting good governance, protecting democratic values and placing the welfare of Nigerians above personal or partisan interests.
Emphasising the collective responsibility of nation-building, Bello reminded citizens and leaders alike that Nigeria belongs to everyone and that sustainable development can only be achieved through responsible leadership, active civic participation and respect for the rule of law.
Her comments come amid growing concerns over the rise of online abuse, misinformation and digital harassment in Nigeria, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum. Experts have repeatedly warned that unchecked cyberbullying could undermine civic engagement, silence critical voices and weaken democratic participation if decisive action is not taken.
