A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Olamide Thomas, who is accused of threatening prominent individuals, including Seyi Tinubu and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, a N10 million bail with one surety in a similar sum. The court’s decision follows a ruling by Justice Emeka Nwite on Monday regarding Thomas’ bail application.
The charges against Thomas stem from a social media post in which she allegedly issued a death threat against Seyi Tinubu, claiming he would die in 2024 and that misfortune had befallen his family. The post also included threats toward Egbetokun and Police Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi.
Justice Nwite, after reviewing the evidence presented by both the defendant and the prosecution, determined there was no concrete evidence to suggest that Thomas would flee or interfere with the trial. The judge ruled that, in the interest of justice, the bail request should be granted.
However, the surety for Thomas must meet several conditions, including an affidavit of means, a three-year tax clearance certificate, and proof of residence within the jurisdiction of the court. Additionally, the defendant and the surety are required to submit two recent passport photographs and verify the address of the surety.
The case has been adjourned until February 18, 2025, for trial.
The charges against Thomas were brought by the police following her social media video in which she allegedly made threatening remarks about the individuals involved. According to the charges, Thomas violated the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, through her online communications.
In the first count, Thomas is accused of intentionally transmitting a video where she threatened Seyi Tinubu with death and misfortune. The second count accuses her of making similar threats against Egbetokun. The third count involves a video in which Thomas allegedly threatened to cause the death of Adejobi’s children, further harassing him with the statements.
The matter is set to proceed with trial next month, and the outcome of the case will likely have significant implications for those who use social media to threaten others.