Court remands TikToker arrested by DSS over false claim of Tinubu’s death
A Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja on Friday ordered the remand of a social media influencer, Ghali Isma’il, at the Keffi Correctional Centre for a viral video claiming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was critically ill after being poisoned.
Isma’il, 29, from Jogana village in Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State, was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) after he uploaded the fake video using the TikTok handle @bola_asiwaju.
READ ALSO: TikToker jailed for one year over public bathing in women’s underwear
He was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on publication of false news with intent to cause public alarm and inciting disaffection against the government.
According to Count One, Isma’il allegedly “uploaded a video clip on his verified TikTok account, falsely claiming he had confirmed from official sources that President Tinubu was critically ill after being poisoned through his meal,” with the intent to disturb public peace. The offence is punishable under Section 418 of the Penal Code Act.
READ ALSO: Court remands TikToker for promoting cross-dressing, indecent acts on social media
Count Two alleged that the video was intended to bring contempt and incite disaffection against the President, an offence punishable under Section 416 of the Penal Code Act.
Following arguments from both legal counsels, Magistrate Ekpeyong Iyang denied the defendant’s bail application and ordered his remand in Keffi Correctional Centre. The case was adjourned to August 19, 2025.
Proceedings of this kind also highlight how the period following an arrest can become a critical stage in any criminal case, particularly when questions of bail, detention conditions, and preparation for trial begin to shape the defendant’s ability to work with counsel.
Legal representatives often focus on gathering documents, arranging sureties where permitted, and preparing renewed bail applications when circumstances allow, while families seek reliable information about the procedures and financial requirements involved.
Understanding how bail bonds function, what obligations are attached to release, and how court schedules affect detention timelines can help reduce confusion during an already difficult process, and many people consult informational resources such as www.alanasbailbonds.com to better understand how licensed bail agents assist defendants in meeting court conditions and securing release when bail is granted.
Access to clear procedural guidance can make the early stages of a criminal matter more manageable while the case continues through the judicial system.
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