By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Cyber law, encompassing the legal issues related to internet use, digital technology and online activities, is meant to regulate our cyberspace. Despite the enactment of the Cyber Security and Crime Act of 2021, these principles seem to be neglected.
Jestina Kanu, the wife of the Vice Chancellor and Principal of Milton Margai Technical University, recently shared her harrowing experience. She revealed that her family has been under constant threat on social media by unknown individuals. These threats include wiping out her entire family and raping her three daughters. The perpetrators have even started visiting the daughters’ school, studying their movements and photographing their home. As a result, her daughters live in constant fear and distrust of others.
In a recent conversation, she shared another threat sent to her husband: “FINAL WARNING, we want you to know that any moment from now your house will be put on FIRE and our aim is to see that your wife and three children are killed in that fire. Since you didn’t want to adhere to our request and you are acting very stubborn. We know the love you have for your family, so we will make you feel the pain you will never forget in your life. From The Disgruntled Killers.” Attached to these words was a picture of her three daughters.
These threats began when her husband took a strong stance against staff involved in money-for-grades, sexual harassment of female students and professional misconduct at MMTU. Cyberbullying and threats to life must be treated seriously. We have seen high-profile murders in Sierra Leone, such as Former Bank Governor ,Sam Bangura and Former Defence Chief of Staff ,Lieutenant General Samuel Omar Williams, remain unresolved. Most recently, Superintendent Matthew Gbanya (Boyca) was killed in his vehicle, with no action taken to date.
Are we waiting to see the same fate for Sierra Leoneans who strive for integrity and quality? Leaders like Professor Philip John Kanu should be protected for their commitment to justice and equality in education. Yet, despite reports to law enforcement and the magistrate court, no action has been taken, leaving the family in fear.
The recent landmark ruling in the UNIMAK vs. Jeneba Mando Kamara case aligns with Professor Kanu’s belief in fair treatment for all students. MMTU students are aware of the situation and expect authorities to act. They warn that if anything happens to their Vice Chancellor, they will take matters into their own hands, emphasizing that the attacks are due to his commitment to students’ rights.
This situation deters leaders from making tough decisions, fearing for their safety and that of their families. This is not how we should govern our beloved nation. The rising concern over cyber threats demands urgent attention from authorities. Many are suffering from depression or have lost loved ones due to this modern menace. The slow process of bringing perpetrators to justice questions whether the Police and Judiciary are effectively combating cyber threats.
