Module 1: Cyberspace and Cyber Jurisdiction
1. Cyberspace:
o A global virtual network enabling communication and interaction.
o Independent of physical geography; it requires additional systems for identity verification.
2. Cyber Jurisdiction:
o The legal authority to handle online activities, complicated by the cross-border nature of the internet.
o Types of jurisdiction:
 Prescriptive: Power to create laws.
 Adjudicative: Power to bring cases to court.
 Enforcement: Power to impose penalties.
3. Differences Between Cyberspace and Real Space:
o Real Space: Transactions inherently carry identity information (e.g., physical traits).
o Cyberspace: Transactions are digital and require verification mechanisms to confirm identity.
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Module 2: Cyber and Computer Crimes
1. Cybercrime:
o Crimes committed in virtual space with no geographical boundaries.
o Examples include cyberstalking, cybersquatting, identity theft, and cyberterrorism.
2. Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015:
o Identifies offences like unlawful access, electronic fraud, and system interference.
o Penalties range from fines to life imprisonment (e.g., for cyber terrorism).
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Module 3: Defamation and Liability
1. Defamation:
o False statements damaging someone’s reputation.
o Elements: defamatory content, reference to the plaintiff, and publication.
o Types: Libel (written) and Slander (spoken).
2. Defences to Defamation:
o Consent, justification (truth), fair comment (opinion on public interest), and lack of intent.
3. Liability for Electronic Statements:
o Includes negligent misstatements, defamatory emails, and internet service providers’ (ISPs) responsibility.
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Module 4: Intellectual Property
1. Definition and Theories:
o Intellectual property (IP) refers to legal rights protecting creations of the mind.
o Theories:
 Economic: Protects creators’ investments.
 Natural Rights: Protects creators' intellectual labor.
 Incentive: Rewards for creativity and innovation.
 Development: Promotes socio-economic growth.
2. Nigeria’s IP Framework:
o Includes the Copyright Act, Patent and Designs Act, and Trademarks Act.
o Institutions like the Nigerian Copyright Commission oversee IP rights.
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Module 5: Freedom of Information (FOI)
1. FOI Act (Nigeria):
o Ensures citizens' access to public records, promoting transparency and accountability.
o Public institutions must respond to requests within 7 days and provide reasons for any refusal.
2. Exemptions Under FOI:
o Absolute (e.g., national security) and qualified (e.g., privacy) exemptions balance public interest with confidentiality.
3. Redress Mechanisms:
o Judicial remedies through courts or administrative complaints to compel disclosure.