By MUHAMMED DAMBABA
A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Olamide Thomas, who is accused of making death threats against Seyi Tinubu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Police Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi via social media. Justice Emeka Nwite approved a ₦10 million bond with one surety in like sum.
Bail Conditions
Justice Nwite emphasized strict compliance with bail conditions, including:
- The surety must present a three-year tax clearance certificate.
- The surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and depose to an affidavit of means.
- Both the defendant and the surety must submit recent passport photographs and provide verifiable addresses.
Charges Against Thomas
Thomas faces three counts under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. She is accused of:
- Threatening Seyi Tinubu with death and claiming misfortune had befallen his family.
- Threatening IGP Kayode Egbetokun with death or bodily harm.
- Threatening Muyiwa Adejobi, stating that his children would die and he would bury them on the same day.
The alleged threats, made in Yoruba and shared via social media, are said to have caused fear and alarm to the individuals involved.
Court Proceedings
Thomas was initially arraigned on December 20, 2024, and remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre after pleading not guilty. The prosecution, led by A.A. Egwu, opposed her bail, citing the severity of the charges.
However, Justice Nwite ruled there was insufficient evidence to suggest Thomas would jump bail or interfere with the trial, stating, “Where the accused person would not jump bail or interfere with the trial, it is in the interest of justice for the court to grant the bail request.”
Next Steps
The trial has been adjourned to February 18, 2025, allowing both parties to prepare their cases.
Legal Implications
The charges fall under Section 24 (2) (a) of the Cybercrimes Act, which penalizes the intentional transmission of communications meant to bully, threaten, or harass. If found guilty, Thomas could face severe legal consequences.
Public Reactions
This case has sparked discussions about cybercrime, freedom of expression, and the limits of online communication. Legal experts emphasize the importance of balancing free speech with accountability for harmful or threatening behavior.
