Defamation in Nigeria is a serious crime that has legal implications. This article seeks to sensitize every Nigerian citizen on what could lead to defamation.
The defamatory possibilities involved in publications and statements generally have compelled the need for a framework for regulation and effective monitoring. These laws are in place to manage the spread of spurious content of human character, particularly in this digital age.
Defamation in Nigeria is both a crime and a tort in Nigeria. S.378 of the Criminal Code criminalizes defamation in Nigeria making it an offence.
What Is Defamation?
Defamation is any matter likely to damage the reputation of any person by exposing the person to hatred, contempt, ridicule, or likely to damage any person in his or her trade or profession by injury to his reputation.
However, defamation as a tort can be classified into two forms – libel or slander.
Let’s examine each of them.
What Is Libel?
A libel is a publication in writing that is defamatory. In other words, a libel is a written defamation.
What Is Slander?
Slander is an oral form of defamation. In this case, verbal statements are alleged to be defamatory, this is referred to as slander.
How To Identify Defamation
A defamatory allegation must be defamatory to the general public and not just a section of the public.
Additionally, not all statements would qualify as defamatory. For example, vulgar abuses would not amount to defamation.
In light of the above, you might want to be mindful of the things you tweet, say or comment on trendy issues concerning any individual. You may be liable for defamation and prosecuted accordingly or sued for damages.
References
Do you seek redress or consultation on legal matters?
Our Law Firm – Scotts Legal – offers legal services in areas including but not limited to the following:
- Real Estate Services (Property Acquisition, Investigation, Registration, Property Management)
- Company Registration and Post-Incorporation Services
- Corporate and Commercial Law solutions
- Domestic Violence and Child Custody
- Cross Border Transactions
- Debt Recovery Services
- Commercial Litigation
- Intellectual Property
- International Trade
- Criminal Litigation
- Employment Law
- Client Advisory
- Civil Litigation
- Mining Law
- Tax Law
Follow us on our social media handles:
Constantly get our news updates and informative articles.