ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPLICATIONS OF ONLINE REVENGE PORNOGRAPHY SHARING AMONGST YOUTH IN NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study attempt to assess the implications of online revenge pornography sharing amongst youth in some selected states in North-eastern Nigeria, the objective of the study are as follows: to examine the causes  and consequences of online revenge pornography sharing and the strategies to curb its menace. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to get the data from this research. A survey technique was utilized to get data from 379 respondents, while In-depth Interview (IDI) and Key Informant Interview (KII) were used to gather data from 19 participants. The findings of the study indicate that the causes of online revenge pornography sharing amongst the youth include a number of factors such as revenge, teach the victim a lesson, monetary gain, social notoriety and sexual gratification. Qualitative that generated from the respondents supported this by including other factors like fashion, enjoyment, poor upbringing and peer influence. The study found out that depression, low self-esteem, mental health, expulsion from education and public shame as the most consequences of online revenge pornography sharing amongst youth in the study areas. The study also found out that social media censorship; legislation and civil rights organization are potent means by which online revenge pornography sharing could be effectively controlled. The study recommends that education and awareness should be used to prevent online revenge pornography sharing. Once people are educated and are aware of the dangers associated with it, they should try as much as possible to protect themselves and there is need for synergy between various agencies such as the police, court, human rights etc. Success can be recorded with regard to a concerted effort by concerned law enforcement agencies.