Senate orders crackdown on bandits flaunting crime cash on TikTok

Lagos, Lagos State – By Prime Brief Media

A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced a social media user to two years imprisonment for posting a patently false and deeply malicious tweet claiming that the young daughter of Nigerian singers Adekunle Gold and Simi had passed away.

The convict, identified as Chibuike Okeke, pleaded guilty to charges of cyberbullying and defamation brought under the Cybercrimes Act. The court heard that Okeke, using the handle @chiboy_naija on X, had tweeted that the couple's daughter, Adejare, had died in a tragic accident. The post went viral, causing immense distress to the family and widespread confusion among fans before being debunked.

Adekunle Gold and Simi, who have been vocal about protecting their child's privacy, reported the matter to the police, leading to Okeke's arrest. In his allocutus, the defendant apologised, saying he did it to gain followers and did not consider the consequences.

Justice Abimbola Akintola, in his sentencing remarks, said the case should serve as a deterrent. "Social media is not a lawless space. The court will not tolerate individuals who weaponise falsehood to traumatise innocent families. The emotional damage inflicted by such actions is profound," the judge stated.

The case has intensified discussions about responsible online behaviour, with celebrities and activists calling for stronger enforcement against cyberbullying while also cautioning against disproportionate legal responses.

Prime Brief Media is monitoring digital security channels and will report on any additional breaches or advisories.

#Cyberbullying #AdekunleGold #Simi #SocialMedia #Justice #PrimeBriefMedia