A 53-year-old lawyer, Wale Odusola, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate’s Court in Ondo State for allegedly using social media to defame and psychologically harass Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The charges against Odusola stem from Facebook posts in which he reportedly accused the governor of neglecting his constituency and failing to govern impartially.
He was also alleged to have made claims linking Aiyedatiwa to an extramarital affair with the state’s Finance Commissioner, Mrs. Wunmi Isaac.
Prosecuting counsel Ayodeji Aderintoye argued that Odusola’s statements had the potential to incite public disorder and damage the governor’s reputation.
The case was brought under various legal statutes, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition, etc.) Act.
The prosecution cited violations of Section 15 (1)(2) of the Ondo State Laws (2021), Section 373 of the Criminal Code Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State (2006), and Section 24 (a)(b) of the Cybercrime Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.
Odusola, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. His defense counsel, led by Olusola Ebiseni, requested bail, arguing that the offenses were bailable and that he was prepared to meet any conditions set by the court.
Presiding Magistrate Sunday Adedapo granted Odusola bail on self-recognition and adjourned the case until May 5, 2025, for further proceedings.
Reacting to the case, human rights lawyer Tope Temokun criticized the governor’s decision to pursue legal action over social media comments, calling it an unnecessary distraction.
He argued that public officeholders should be open to criticism rather than resorting to legal measures to suppress free speech.
“For a governor who rose to power unexpectedly and has yet to begin his full tenure, prioritizing legal action against a citizen’s opinion instead of focusing on governance is a misplaced priority,” Temokun remarked.
He urged the governor to drop the case and focus on the responsibilities of his office, emphasizing that democracy thrives on diverse viewpoints.
He further stressed that governance is about delivering tangible results rather than silencing critics.
“We will continue to demand accountability and ensure that the government remains focused on the welfare of the people,” he added.