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The Osun State Government has established a Cyber Crime Action Committee to enforce the provisions of the law concerning cyber crimes, cyber bullying, and dissemination of fake news. Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Engagement, announced this initiative in Osogbo earlier this week.
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Alimi emphasized that the formation of the committee was necessary to address the growing threat of fake news within the state. He stated, “The objective is to promote a governance environment characterized by responsibility, decency, and honesty.”
The decision to establish the committee was prompted by the escalating social media disputes between supporters of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and the opposition All Progressives Congress regarding governance issues in the state.
Alimi acknowledged that the proliferation of fake news has adverse effects on both the government and the opposition. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all individuals and entities abide by the law.
The committee, situated within the Ministry of Justice, comprises journalists and legal experts. Its primary mandate is to combat the spread of fake news and hold perpetrators accountable under the Cybercrime Act of 2015.
Alimi affirmed, “The committee will enforce relevant provisions of the Cybercrime Act to ensure that all stakeholders operate within the confines of the law while exercising their fundamental human rights.”
