An Akure Magistrate’s Court has arraigned a 53-year-old lawyer, Wale Odusola, over allegations of verbal and psychological abuse against Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through social media posts.
Odusola was accused of making defamatory claims on Facebook, alleging the governor had neglected his constituency and engaged in an extramarital affair with the state’s Finance Commissioner, Mrs. Wunmi Isaac.
The police prosecutor, Ayodeji Aderintoye, argued that Odusola’s statements were capable of inciting public unrest and damaging the governor’s reputation, violating multiple laws, including the Cybercrime Act.
According to the charge sheet, Odusola’s actions contravened Section 15 (1)(2) of the Ondo State Laws (2021), Section 373 of the Criminal Code Cap 37 (2006), and Section 24 (a)(b) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, etc.) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.
Odusola pleaded not guilty, and his legal team, led by Olusola Ebiseni, requested bail, arguing that the alleged offence was bailable. Magistrate Sunday Adedapo granted bail on self-recognition and adjourned the case to May 5, 2025.
Human rights lawyer Tope Temokun criticized Governor Aiyedatiwa for what he described as an attempt to suppress free speech.
“For a newly elected governor awaiting inauguration to prioritize silencing criticism instead of focusing on governance is a misplaced priority,” Temokun said.
He condemned the criminalization of criticism, urging the governor to withdraw the charges and concentrate on his leadership responsibilities.
“Democracy thrives on dissenting voices. We will not be silenced but will continue to hold the governor accountable for the good of the people,” he added.
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