Police arraign blogger for publishing fake news in Ibadan

The police, on Wednesday, charged a 28-year-old man, Monisola Adebayo, before an Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, over alleged false online news publication.

Adebayo, whose address was not provided, is standing trial on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, defamation and publication of false news.

He, however pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Insp Olagoke Adegbenro, told the court that the defendant committed the offences sometimes in 2024, at the Eleyele area of Ibadan.

He alleged that the defendant and others, conspired to publish false news which defamed the character of one Mrs Alice Oyinlola, a nominal complainant.

Adegbenro, alleged that the defendant posted undue comments online, which exposed Oyinlola to hatred, contempt and ridicule.

He said that the offences contravenes the provisions of sections 59, 375 and 516, of the Criminal Law of Oyo State, 2000.

The Magistrate, Mrs Olasinmibo Sanusi-Zubair, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

She adjourned the case until April 21, for hearing.