SWAT arraigns Ikorodu Monarch, Accomplice over alleged defamation, contempt of court

By Paul Iyoghojie

Operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactical (SWAT) unit of the Nigeria Police Force have arraigned a traditional ruler from Ikorodu and his alleged accomplice before a Lagos Magistrate’s Court over claims of defamation, cyberbullying and contempt of court.

The defendants-Olusola Olugbade, 49, and Sanni Yusuf, were docked at the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court on a four-count charge following their arrest at the SWAT Command in Adeniji Adele, Lagos Island.

According to police prosecutors, the case stemmed from a petition by Kazeem Sikiru Kalejaiye, who accused the defendants of forging the signature of his late father to sell disputed landed property.

Police further alleged that after the complainant secured a High Court judgment restraining the defendants and others from further transactions on the land, the accused persons took to social media to publish what was described as a defamatory and damaging narrative.

The prosecution said the defendants allegedly described the court judgment as fake, used offensive language against the complainant, and urged members of the public to disregard the ruling, actions said to have tarnished his reputation.

The matter was reportedly referred by the Inspector-General of Police to the SWAT unit for investigation. Following inquiries led by Inspector Odesina Olufemi, the suspects were charged with conspiracy, cyberbullying, defamation of character and contempt of court.

Prosecuting counsel, ASP Reuben Solomon, told the court that the defendants knowingly published false claims intended to discredit the complainant and undermine a valid court judgment.

He also alleged that despite the subsisting court order, the defendants and others still at large continued to sell portions of the disputed land, prompting their arrest.

The offences, according to the prosecution, contravene Sections 411, 24(2), 373 and 104 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty.

Chief Magistrate O.O. Olatunji granted them bail in the sum of N3 million each, with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case until May 20, 2026.