DEFAMATION

The paper discusses the evolving relationship between defamation law and social media in Nigeria, with a view to assessing how legal regimes can balance individual reputation against the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression. As public discourse increasingly shifts onto platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, the velocity, spread, anonymity, and perpetuity of online communication have increased both the possibility of defamatory harm and the potential claims to free speech protection. Through the use of statutory provisions, including the 1999 Constitution and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, as well as judicial decisions, this research examines the adequacy of existing legal frameworks in addressing defamatory content within the digital space. It further explores the responsibilities and potential liabilities of users, content creators, and internet intermediaries. The paper thus concludes with policy and balanced regulatory recommendations aimed at safeguarding reputations while at the same time maintaining an open, virile, and vibrant virtual space for free expression in Nigeria.

The study focused on examining the influence of media representation of Dele Farotimi versus Afe Babalola criminal defamation suit on Uniben students’ perception of the law. It is aimed at analyzing the media representation of the Dele Farotimi versus Afe Babalola criminal defamation suit, assessing the perception of Uniben student regarding criminal defamation law in 12Nigeria, the influence of media representation on Uniben students’ understanding of criminal defamation law and explaining the implications of media representation on Uniben students’ attitude toward freedom of expression and protection of reputation. For its theoretical framework, the study adopted the agenda setting and framing theory to further buttress the point of the study. While the stratified random sampling method was used to gather the data used for the study. Findings of the study revealed that Uniben students have negative perception of criminal defamation law and that positive steps have not been taken to balance freedom of speech and protection of reputation. The findings also revealed that Uniben students agreed that they will be cautious of what they post online and they are aware of the potential consequences of defamatory statements and online actions and will take steps to protect themselves from potential legal consequences. The researcher therefore concluded that it is necessary that the law makers review the constitution to balance protection of reputation and free speech in Nigeria. The researcher recommended among other things that the media should ensure balanced and fair reporting and avoid sensationalism and bias. The researcher also recommended that the media should create more awareness about the existence of defamation.