A Nigerian court has sentenced a social media user to two years’ imprisonment for publishing a false and malicious claim about the daughter of popular singer Adekunle Gold.
The convict, identified as Samuel Adeboye Adeyeye, popularly known online as “Swanky,” was found guilty of spreading misinformation after posting a tweet that falsely claimed the singer’s young daughter had died. The post, which quickly drew outrage across social media, was widely condemned for its insensitivity and the emotional distress it could have caused the family.
According to court proceedings, Adeyeye was arrested shortly after the tweet gained traction and was subsequently arraigned on charges related to cyberbullying and dissemination of false information. He pleaded guilty to the charges.
Delivering judgment, the court sentenced him to two years in prison, underscoring the seriousness of spreading harmful falsehoods, particularly those involving minors and private family matters.
Legal observers say the ruling reflects a growing willingness by Nigerian authorities to clamp down on digital misconduct, especially as social media continues to play a powerful role in shaping public perception and discourse.
The case has sparked conversations around responsible online behaviour, with many noting that the judgment sends a strong warning to individuals who use digital platforms to spread unverified or damaging information.
For public figures like Adekunle Gold and their families, the verdict is seen as a measure of protection against the increasing wave of online harassment and misinformation.
