A TikTok content creator, Emmanuel Ajibade, was on Thursday, April 24, 2025, brought before an Akure Magistrates’ Court for allegedly engaging in cyberbullying and defamation of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) official. The case, which has drawn attention to the growing issue of cybercrime in Nigeria, marks another high-profile instance of digital harassment.
Ajibade, known for his social media presence, is accused of spreading false and damaging information about Ibitoye Samuel, an FRSC officer, on TikTok. The police prosecutor, Insp. Taiwo Oniyere, revealed that the alleged cyberbullying incident took place in the Higher Height Area, Orita Obele, Akure, where Ajibade and others—currently at large—were involved in a conspiracy to commit felony acts such as cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and defamation.
According to the police prosecutor, Ajibade used the TikTok platform to disseminate falsehoods under the username “checkers69” with the intent to cause annoyance, insult, and distress to Samuel. The spread of these damaging allegations, which included intimidation and criminal defamation, reportedly resulted in feelings of hatred, anxiety, and anger towards the FRSC official. The prosecutor argued that the action was not only harmful to Samuel’s reputation but also contravened sections of the Cyber Crime (Provision and Prevention) Act, 2015.
The alleged cyberbullying case highlights the increasing concern over digital harassment in Nigeria, particularly involving influential social media figures. The Cyber Crime Act of 2015 criminalizes actions like cyberbullying, stalking, and defamation, all of which are being cited in this case against Ajibade.
The police have recommended that Ajibade be remanded in custody while the case is ongoing. The prosecutor, Insp. Oniyere, requested that the defendant be placed in the Correctional Centre in accordance with Nigerian law. Ajibade’s counsel, Mr. A. F. Awala, objected, seeking a short adjournment to allow for the filing of a counter affidavit to contest the application. However, Chief Magistrate Mrs. Olateju Odenusi-Fadeyi ruled in favor of the prosecution and ordered Ajibade’s remand at the SWAT Police Station, ensuring that his health would be properly attended to during his detention.
The case has drawn significant attention to the increasing use of social media for harmful activities, as the rise of digital platforms like TikTok has led to a surge in cyberbullying incidents across the country. As more Nigerians, especially young people, engage with these platforms, there is growing concern about how unchecked online behavior can impact individuals’ lives and reputations.
The Nigerian authorities have made it clear that they are committed to tackling cybercrime and ensuring that those who use digital platforms to harm others are held accountable. This case is one of many in a string of efforts to curb online harassment, which the government views as a serious threat to both individuals and public order.
The FRSC, a body responsible for road safety and traffic enforcement in Nigeria, has expressed its concern over the incident, with many officials calling for stronger actions against digital threats. The act of cyberbullying an official of such a significant agency, they argue, not only tarnishes the reputation of the victim but also undermines the integrity of public institutions and government operations.
The situation is also a reminder of the role social media influencers and content creators play in shaping public discourse. With millions of followers, creators like Ajibade hold considerable influence over their audiences. However, the misuse of this power for defamation or cyberbullying raises questions about the responsibility content creators have to their followers and the public.
The trial is scheduled for April 30, 2025, when further developments will be addressed. The case will likely set a legal precedent on how Nigeria handles cyberbullying and digital harassment cases in the future.
As digital platforms continue to grow in influence, Nigerian lawmakers and law enforcement agencies are expected to step up their efforts to regulate online behaviour and protect citizens from harm. The outcome of this case will serve as an important indicator of how effectively the Nigerian justice system is adapting to the challenges posed by new forms of cybercrime.
