Senate Deletes 7 Years Jail Term Clause For Social Media Critics From Electronic Fraud Bill

The senate has decided to delete section 13 (3) from the proposed bill on electronic fraud fearing that, “it could be abused and misinterpreted."

The section stipulates a seven-year jail for people who intentionally publish slanderous messages about government electronically.

 Sen. Gbenga Kaka (APC-Ogun), said following the public hearing which was held after the second reading, the section 13 (3) of the provision was criticised by Nigerians on social media.

 According to him, since the bill is now in the public, he decided to consult with the Senate Committee Chairman on Information, Media and Public Affairs, and that of Judiciary.

 "After consultations, we resolved that section 13 (3) of the proposed bill could be abused at any point in time and could be misinterpreted. And as a result, I have their permission to announce to the world that that section shall be deleted" Senator Kaka said.

 The bill which had generated so much furore in social media circles was aimed at punishing internet users who publish slanderous messages, pictures or articles about the government.