A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted a N10 million bail to Olamide Thomas, a woman accused of making death threats against President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The court granted the bail with one surety in like sum.
Justice Emeka Nwite, while ruling on the bail application, stated that there was insufficient evidence to suggest that Thomas would jump bail. He emphasized that he had carefully examined the affidavit evidence of both the defendant and the complainant.
The judge noted that Thomas would not interfere with the trial, and it was in the interest of justice to grant the bail request. He ordered the surety to provide an affidavit of means and a three-year tax clearance certificate, and to be a resident within the court’s jurisdiction.
Additionally, Justice Nwite directed the surety and Thomas to deposit two recent passport photographs with the court’s registrar, and the surety’s address to be verified. The case was adjourned until February 18, 2025, for the commencement of trial.
Thomas was arraigned on December 20, 2024, and remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre after pleading not guilty to three counts brought against her by the Inspector General of Police.
The defendant is facing charges bordering on harassing and threatening Seyi, the IGP, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post.
According to the charge sheet, Thomas allegedly transmitted communication in the form of video recordings on her social media platforms, making remarks in Yoruba language that threatened the individuals mentioned.
The prosecution alleged that Thomas’s actions placed Seyi, the IGP, and Adejobi in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm. The offences are contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
The case has generated public interest due to its focus on freedom of expression and alleged misuse of social media. Thomas’s legal team expressed confidence in proving their client’s innocence during the trial.
