Ondo State not criminalising free speech – Attorney General

The Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, has said the state government is not criminalising free speech, contrary to claims by some groups.
Ajulo gave the clarification in a statement on Thursday in Akure.
The attorney general was reacting to allegations by some groups that the state government attempted to suppress public opinions.
“It is my responsibility as the attorney general and commissioner for justice to remind and educate the public about the operation of our existing laws.
“We merely reiterated the provisions of established legal frameworks designed to protect residents from cyber harassment, blackmail, and malicious misinformation.
“ While free speech is a fundamental right, the right is not absolute as it does not exempt individuals from the consequences of defamation, targeted harassment, or false accusations.
“The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 is Nigeria’s primary legislation addressing cyber-related offenses, including cyberbullying, cyberstalking and harassment.
“The Act prohibits various forms of online harassment, intimidation, and the spread of false information, particularly when intended to harm individuals or institutions,”’ he stated.
Ajulo pointed out that the Cybercrime Act is a Federal law, not a state-specific regulation.
“This is not an Ondo state law; it is a national law. My role is to bring it to public attention and ensure its proper understanding.
“One of my first acts in office was the establishment of the Citizens’ Rights Advisory Bureau (CRAB), and it is also our duty to provide legal guidance when necessary,” he stated.
The commissioner stressed that the growing prevalence of cyber bullying, particularly among young people is worrisome.
He warned that the misuse of digital platforms for malicious attacks would not only damage personal reputations but also threaten governance, business confidence, and societal harmony.
The attorney general reaffirmed that enforcing the Cybercrime Act is about balancing the right to free speech with the need to prevent defamation, misinformation, and digital harassment.
“Free speech should be a tool for development, not a weapon for destruction.”
He added that Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s insistence was that “his people are free to express their opinions, engage in constructive criticism, and hold leaders accountable.
“The free speech must be done within the ambit of the law, ensuring truth, fairness, and responsibility.”
Ajulo reassured the public that the Aiyedatiwa-led administration remained open to dialogue and constructive criticism.
“ Enforcing cybercrime and defamation laws is not about silencing voices but about ensuring that public discourse maintains integrity, respect, and factual accuracy.
“Ondo state is not criminalising free speech but reinforcing the principle that every right comes with responsibility.
“Laws exist to maintain order, protect citizens, and uphold governance,” Ajulo concluded.
Ondo State not criminalising free speech – Attorney General