Court orders Islamic cleric to return to court over alleged defamatory social media posts

A Federal High Court in Osogbo ordered the remand of Islamic cleric Jamiu Adeguwa, who is currently held by the Zone 11 Police Command, after he was accused of making defamatory statements on social media.

Justice Suleiman Hassan, who presided over the case, directed that Adeguwa remain in police custody until the court hears a formal bail application scheduled for June 26.

The cleric was arraigned on a single charge of defamation and pleaded not guilty to the allegation.

Police prosecutor Mr J. Famuyin informed the court that the alleged offence took place between July 4 and July 31, 2022, within the Osogbo metropolitan area.

Famuyin said that Adeguwa allegedly sent verbal and photographic messages through his social media page, the Al‑Madrasatu Wahabiya page.

According to the prosecutor, “the defendant knowingly published false messages that were injurious and offensive to the character and reputation of the complainant.”

He further explained that the alleged act violated sections 24(1)(a) and (b), as well as section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.

Defence counsel Mr Oladayo Ogungbe requested that the court grant his client bail on liberal terms, arguing that the cleric should be free while awaiting trial.

The prosecution opposed the oral bail application and asked that the defendant be remanded at the Ilesa Correctional Centre pending the bail hearing.

Justice Hassan denied the oral application and ordered that Adeguwa remain in the custody of the Zone 11 Police Command.

The case was adjourned to June 26 for the hearing of the formal bail application.