By Barnabas Esiet.
Renowned legal expert, Abdullahi Tony Dania, recently shed light on the application of the Cybercrime Act 2015 and its implications for journalists.
Speaking at a workshop organized by Feedback Communications Company in collaboration with Maritime Media Executives, Dania emphasized that the Act is not targeted against genuine journalists but rather aims to prevent cybercrimes such as cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and the circulation of false information.
Dania advised journalists to verify information before publishing and to have justifiable evidence before circulating news publications.
He also highlighted the importance of apologizing and retracting false information to avoid legal consequences.
The legal luminary noted that the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides benefits to journalism but should not be taken for granted.
Earlier, Ismail Aniemu, Publisher of JournalNG, discussed the prevention and management of cybercrime pitfalls.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity in journalism and advised journalists to write mindfully with the aim of rebuilding and developing society.
Aniemu also stressed the need for immediate correction and apology in cases of alleged circulation of wrong information.
The workshop aimed to educate journalists on the provisions and implications of the Cybercrime Act 2015 as amended.
The discussion highlighted the importance of responsible journalism in the digital age and the need for journalists to be aware of the legal implications of their actions.
The application of the Cybercrime Act 2015 has significant implications for journalists. While the Act is not targeted against genuine journalists, it aims to prevent cybercrimes and promote responsible journalism.
Journalists have a duty to verify information, have justifiable evidence, and apologize and retract false information to avoid legal consequences.
The importance of maintaining integrity and writing mindfully cannot be overstated in the digital age.
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