Activist Charged For Allegedly Threatening Seyi Tinubu, Egbetokun, And Others
A Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded activist Olamide Thomas in custody over allegations of cyberbullying involving threatening remarks about President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, and other public officials.
Justice Emeka Nwite denied a verbal bail request by Thomas’ lawyer, insisting that a formal written application must be submitted. Thomas, who pleaded not guilty, faces three charges under the Cybercrimes Act of 2024.
The charges stem from a video Thomas allegedly posted online in which she made the following statements:
1. That Seyi Tinubu would die within the year.
2. A threat against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
3. A claim that the children of police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi would die in front of him.
The police have classified these statements as violations of the Cybercrimes Act, which prohibits using online platforms to harass or threaten individuals.
Thomas, a nurse and activist, was initially arrested during a commemoration of the #EndSARS protests at the Lekki tollgate on October 20, 2024. The video that prompted her current charges was allegedly recorded after her release from that earlier detention.
She was re-arrested in Lagos on December 13, 2024, and subsequently transferred to Abuja for prosecution.
The court has scheduled Thomas’ trial to begin on December 30, 2024. The charges carry significant implications under the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalises online threats that cause individuals to fear for their safety.
The case has drawn attention due to its connection to high-profile figures and its potential impact on free speech and activism in Nigeria.
