A 29-year-old TikTok user, Ghali Isma’il, has been remanded in Keffi Correctional Centre for spreading false information about the death of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He had published a video on his verified TikTok account, claiming the president died from poisoning.
The controversial video, which quickly went viral, triggered public concern and backlash, prompting authorities to take legal action. Isma’il was arrested and arraigned before a Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja on charges of spreading false information intended to incite public alarm and promote disaffection against the government.
The charges stem from sections of the Penal Code which criminalize the deliberate dissemination of false news and incitement. The prosecution alleged that Isma’il intentionally made the claim around July 20, 2025, with the aim of disturbing public peace and undermining confidence in the presidency.
Magistrate Ekpeyong Iyang ordered that the accused be remanded in custody pending further proceedings. The court declined his bail request and adjourned the matter to August 19 for hearing.
The incident highlights the growing concern over the use of social media platforms to spread misinformation and the legal consequences that may follow such actions. The case has intensified debate around the regulation of online content and the boundaries of free speech in Nigeria.
