An Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, has ordered the remand of 12 suspects at the Agodi Correctional Centre for allegedly publishing fake news and threatening the life of Governor Seyi Makinde.
The 12 suspects, all mechanics, were charged with several offences, including treasonable felony, threat to murder, and publication of defamatory matters.
The suspects are: Abdullahi Alajiga (38), Olaniyi Dauda (71), Alfa Olafisoye (69), Daudu Babalola (52), Akande Musbau (58), Olatinwo Wale (42), Saheed Tijani (41), Sunday Awosope (38), Idris Olujimi (32), Ayobami Idowu (37), Olajire Sodiq (24), and Adeniyi Alimi (51).
The defendants were accused of posting a video on social media in which they allegedly threatened to remove Governor Makinde from office by force.
The video, which went viral, also claimed that the governor had taken their lands and expelled them from their workshops in Olubadan Estate, Egbeda, Ibadan.
The prosecution, led by Inspector Sikiru Opaleye, argued that the defendants were using social media to spread false information to create fear and alarm in the public.
“This action by the suspects was designed to defame Governor Makinde and create unrest in the state,” Opaleye said.
The charges against the suspects also include unlawful assembly, causing fear, and conduct likely to breach the peace.
The suspects were not allowed to enter a plea during their court appearance.
Chief Magistrate Mrs. Olabisi Ogunkanmi ordered the suspects to be remanded at the Agodi Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP).
She set the next court date for January 22, 2025, for further mention of the case.
The prosecutor alleged that the suspects had conspired with others who are still at large to publish the defamatory and false statements on December 5.
The video posted by the defendants accused the governor of illegally seizing land and forcibly removing them from their workshops, creating tension among the local community.
“The defendants are believed to have made these threats with the intent to incite violence and damage the reputation of the governor,” said Opaleye.
According to the charge, the publication of fake news about the governor was not only defamatory but also a deliberate attempt to cause public fear.
The prosecution further alleged that the suspects unlawfully assembled in a manner that raised suspicion and contributed to the breach of public peace.
The court proceedings have sparked public interest, with many questioning the extent of the authorities’ action in curbing the spread of fake news.
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, noting that publishing false information and making threats against public officials can have severe consequences.
“This case is a warning to others who think they can use social media to spread misinformation and cause public unrest,” said legal analyst Temidayo Adeoye.
Meanwhile, Governor Makinde has not publicly commented on the ongoing case, though sources close to his office have expressed confidence that justice will prevail.
“Governor Makinde is committed to maintaining peace and security in Oyo State,” a source from his office said.
The case has drawn attention to the rising concerns around fake news and its impact on public order.
Oyo State, like many parts of Nigeria, has witnessed a growing problem of misinformation, especially on social media platforms, which often leads to tension and unrest.
In recent years, the Nigerian government has introduced stricter laws to combat the spread of fake news, particularly when it concerns public figures and political leaders.
For many, this case will serve as a significant test for the country’s legal system in handling such sensitive matters.
