Death Penalty Proposed For Fatal Cyber-Crimes In New Bill

A death sentence has been proposed on persons who hack into the Critical National Information Infrastructure or computer networks resulting in the loss of lives.

The proposal is contained in the Cyber Crime Bill 2013, which is before the House of Representatives.


However, where there is no loss of lives but the offender causes grievous bodily injury to another person, the bill recommends a prison term of not less than 15 years.

Using any computer network for terrorism purposes also attracts life sentence.

The bill defines Critical National Information Infrastructure as definite computer systems, networks and information infrastructure critical to the national security of Nigeria or the economy and social well-being of its citizens.

The bill frowns on child Indecency, as it imposes a 10-year jail term for offenders or a good of N20million or both.

The bill criminalises the use of force to engage children in intimate activities.

Offenders are liable to being convicted to 10 years imprisonment or a good of N15m.