The Legal Consequences Of Digital Communication Language: Nigerian Law In Focus

Abstract

The use of pictorial as well as character representations in online communications has become the acceptable norm. As some of these representations, referred to as emoticons, emoji, GIFs, Stickers, memes, pictures and such like are gaining recognition, so is the contention as to their legal consequences. Although, no certain and defined field of law has emerged to analyse or define in a systemic manner and with adequacy the legal implication of each form of such communication, emerging juristic principles have signified the readiness of the courts to treat them as creating legal consequences. Utilising the doctrinal approach, this paper considers the legal issues that may arise in their use within the context of the Nigerian legal system. By assessing judicial pronouncements in other jurisdictions, the paper makes suggestions on how to effectively deal with legal issues that may arise in relation to their use in Nigeria.