NDTWG Petitions Jude Gbaboyor for cyberstalking Tompolo & Otuaro

The Niger Delta Transparency Watch Group (NDTWG) led by Comrade Simon Ogbe has submitted a formal petition to the Office of the National Security Advisor (NSA), the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and the Department of State Security (DSS), urging swift action against Mr. Jude Gbaboyor for alleged cyberstalking and bullying.

The petition highlights the targeted harassment of prominent figures, including Dr. Dennis Otuaro, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpomupolo, aka; Tompolo and the Gbaramatu Kingdom.

The group expressed grave concern over the psychological harm caused by such online attacks, describing them as "evil propaganda" with the potential to harm individuals and society at large. The NDTWG emphasized the urgency of addressing the matter to protect victims and deter further incidents.

Citing Section 24(2) of the Nigerian Cybercrime Act, the NDTWG underscored that cyberstalking and bullying constitute serious offences under Nigerian law. Specifically, the Act criminalizes communications that threaten, bully, or harass others, imposing penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and a minimum fine of ₦25,000,000. Section 58 of the Act further defines cyberstalking as conduct that causes a reasonable person to feel fear, a sentiment that the NDTWG believes applies in this case.

The petition outlined the severe impacts of cyberbullying and cyberstalking, categorizing the consequences into psychological, physical, behavioral, and sleep-related issues.The NDTWG also drew attention to the broader societal effects, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to safeguard individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. Psychological Impact: Low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

Physical Impact: Health problems such as headaches, stomachaches, and eating disorders. Behavioural Changes: Altered behaviours due to distress and harassment. Sleep Issues: Difficulty sleeping caused by the emotional toll of online abuse.

The petition invoked international human rights standards, noting that bullying and harassment violate fundamental human rights, including: Right to Health: Physical and mental well-being are often compromised by bullying, Right to Work: Cyberstalking can create unsafe and unproductive work environments and Freedom of Expression: Victims may feel silenced by fear of further harassment. The NDTWG asserted that every individual has the inherent right to dignity, respect, and a life free from violence or degrading treatment, as enshrined in United Nations human rights laws.

The NDTWG has called on the relevant authorities to:
Investigate the allegations thoroughly, Arrest Mr. Jude Gbaboyor to prevent further harm and ensure justice is served promptly to protect victims and deter future offenders. The group stressed that timely intervention is necessary to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the rights of all Nigerians.