Police arraign ‘DJ Chicken’ for allegedly threatening to kill Seyi Tinubu

In a recent legal development, Abiodun Ademola, a well-known social media personality known as DJ Chicken, has been arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrates' Court on charges related to alleged threats against Seyi Tinubu. The case marks a significant moment in the ongoing discourse around cybercrime and freedom of expression in Nigeria. According to the prosecution, the incident took place on 5 July at approximately 9:00 a.m. in Lekki, Lagos, where Ademola is based. Abiodun Ademola, who resides in Tafodi Estate, Royal Park, Lekki, Lagos, faces three counts under the law. These include threats to life, offensive online publication, and conduct that could potentially breach public peace. The charges stem from allegations that he posted a video on his Facebook and Instagram accounts, which reportedly contained explicit threats against Seyi Tinubu. The content of these posts is said to have included specific references to the possibility of President Bola Tinubu contesting or winning the 2027 presidential election, suggesting that Ademola would take action against Seyi Tinubu under such circumstances. The prosecution, represented by Senior Police Superintendent Okunuga, Officer-in-Charge of the Legal Division at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja, emphasized that the intent behind these posts was to reach Seyi Tinubu directly and instill fear among the public through their dissemination on social media platforms. This assertion highlights concerns regarding the potential impact of such messages on public sentiment and safety. Furthermore, the police allege that Ademola's actions constituted a violation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, specifically Section 24, due to the nature of the content being grossly offensive and menacing. The prosecution also cited Sections 232 and 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which pertain to offenses involving threats to life and conduct that might disturb public order. During the proceedings, when the charges were formally presented to him, Ademola entered a plea of not guilty before Magistrate M.F. Onamusi. In response to this, the magistrate granted bail to Ademola in the amount of ₦1 million, requiring two sureties each providing the same sum. One of the sureties must be a direct family member sharing Ademola's surname, while the other should be a recognized community leader or clergyman. Additionally, the court mandated that both sureties submit proof of three years of tax payments and undergo LASTRA verification prior to finalizing the bail conditions. The court has scheduled the next hearing for 3 August, allowing time for further investigation and preparation of defense strategies. As the case progresses, it will be crucial to observe how the legal system addresses issues surrounding digital communication and its implications on personal security and societal harmony. This case not only underscores the importance of addressing cybercrimes but also raises questions about the boundaries of free speech in the digital age.