A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Olamide Thomas, a woman accused of issuing death threats against Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Justice Emeka Nwite approved Thomas’ release on a N10 million bond with one surety in like sum, following her arraignment on cybercrime-related charges.
Delivering his ruling on Monday, Justice Nwite noted that the prosecution had not presented sufficient evidence to suggest that Thomas would abscond if granted bail. He emphasized that bail is a fundamental right, particularly when there are no indications of the defendant interfering with the judicial process.
The court outlined specific bail conditions for Thomas:
- The surety must present a three-year tax clearance certificate.
- The surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.
- Both Thomas and the surety are required to deposit two recent passport photographs with the court.
- The surety’s address must be verified by the court registrar.
The case has been adjourned to February 18 for trial.
Background of the Case
Thomas was arrested after a series of viral social media videos surfaced, where she allegedly made threatening remarks in Yoruba directed at Seyi Tinubu, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, and Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi.
In the videos, Thomas reportedly stated that Seyi Tinubu would die within the year, and that the Tinubu family was cursed with misfortune. She also allegedly threatened the families of Egbetokun and Adejobi with death and tragedy.
The Inspector-General of Police charged Thomas with three counts under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2024, which criminalizes the use of computer systems or networks to intimidate or harass others.
Charges Against Olamide Thomas
The charges, filed under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/636/2024, include the following:
- Count One – Thomas is accused of transmitting a video via social media in which she threatened Seyi Tinubu’s life. The prosecution argued that her statements were intended to intimidate and harass him, placing him in fear of death or physical harm.
- Count Two – She allegedly made similar threatening remarks toward IGP Egbetokun in another video, placing the police chief in fear of violence or bodily harm.
- Count Three – Thomas reportedly stated that Muyiwa Adejobi’s children would die before his eyes and that he would bury all of them in a single day. The prosecution stated that this communication was intended to cause emotional distress to Adejobi.
The prosecution, led by A.A. Egwu, argued that Thomas’ actions violated Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalizes cyberbullying, harassment, and threats of violence.
Court Proceedings
During the bail hearing, Thomas’ lawyer, Seprebofa Oyeghe, argued that the defendant had no intention of evading trial. He also highlighted her willingness to cooperate with law enforcement and the judiciary throughout the case.
However, the prosecution, represented by Victor Okoye, opposed the bail request, citing the gravity of the alleged offences.
Justice Nwite, in his ruling, stated that the court must balance the need to protect society with the accused’s right to a fair trial. He noted that bail should not be denied unless there is a compelling reason to believe the defendant would pose a risk to the judicial process.
What’s Next?
With the bail now granted, Thomas is expected to be released from the Suleja Correctional Centre once the bail conditions are met. The court has scheduled February 18, 2025, for the commencement of her trial.
The case has drawn widespread attention, with legal experts and human rights advocates debating the limits of free speech on social media and the consequences of issuing threats online.
