Nigeria is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Africa and has one of the biggest film industries next to Hollywood. With such a socially mixed environment why are the blackmail reports in Nigeria skyrocketing? Nigeria is ranked in the top 17 of the least peaceful countries in the world. With all this in mind is blackmail a crime in Nigeria and what laws are victims protected under? Find out all that more ahead.
Is Blackmail a Crime in Nigeria?
Blackmail is a serious crime in Nigeria and can carry some severe consequences, depending on the severity of the situation. According to Nigerian criminal law, blackmail consists of someone threatening to expose information that is damaging to another person either through physical or economic harm if they do not comply with the demand made by the perpetrator. Such threats can have devastating effects on individuals, including hard-earned reputations.
As a result, it is important for anyone who becomes aware of blackmail being perpetrated against them to immediately seek out legal representation so that appropriate steps may be taken against this unethical and illegal practice. Additionally, seeking professional legal advice will help victims protect their rights and ensure that any extortion attempts are dealt with accordingly in court.
Blackmail Laws in Nigeria
In Nigeria, blackmail is considered a criminal offense and is punishable under the country’s criminal code. Specifically, it is covered under Section 408 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which states that any person who makes an unwarranted demand with menaces is guilty of a felony and can be sentenced to imprisonment for up to 14 years. Additionally, Nigerian Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015 also addresses blackmail, specifically electronic communications. Under this act, blackmail that is carried out via electronic means is considered a separate and more serious offense, with harsher penalties.
How to Deal with Blackmail in Nigeria?
Internet blackmail is a very serious crime in Nigeria. If you are facing this threat there are e few steps you can take.
Steps:
- Try and stay calm and do not pay your assailant. I know it can be tempting to pay them with their promises it might all go away, but it is not recommended. In most reported cases this only causes your blackmailer to be more violent.
- If possible, document everything. This will come in handy if you end up pressing charges or filing a lawsuit.
- Next, report the crime to your local enforcement. You can also report the crime online to the FBI’s Crime Complaint Center.
- Lastly, talk with your friends and family. In crimes like these, the preparator’s goal is to make you feel like you did something wrong or that you are the criminal, when in fact you are not the criminal and have not committed any crime. Always remember, you are not alone, seek out help right away.
Conclusion
Crime in Nigeria is out of control. As a whole, we need to make sure we are doing our part and following the steps listed above so we can catch these criminals. If you are still left wondering, whether blackmail is a crime in Nigeria, the answer is most definitely, yes. Do your part and report the crime today.
If you are a victim of blackmail in Nigeria, reach out to Digital Investigation today. We are trained to track these criminals. Get help right away!
