A 23-year-old salesgirl, Nifemi Friday, has been remanded in the Kirikiri Female Custodial Center in Lagos following allegations of stealing goods worth N5.2 million and defaming a businessman and his wife by falsely labeling them ritualists. The case, which has sparked public interest, was heard at the Eti-Osa Chief Magistrates’ Court, where the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against her.
The prosecution, led by Inspector Adeleye Ganiu of the Ogombo Police Division, Lagos, detailed the events that led to the defendant’s arraignment. According to the charge sheet marked ET/C/18/2025, the alleged crime took place on December 23, 2024, around 1:00 p.m. at Obas Mall in Okun Ajah, Lagos State. The defendant is accused of stealing goods from the store and later spreading defamatory voice notes via social media, accusing Mr. Lateef Lawal and his wife of being ritualists.
The police argue that the allegations against the couple were not only false but could have severe consequences. Given the highly sensitive nature of ritualistic accusations in Nigeria, such statements have been known to incite public outrage, mob attacks, and even vigilante justice. The prosecution emphasized that social media has become a powerful tool for misinformation, and cases like this highlight the dangers of spreading unverified claims online.
During the court proceedings, Magistrate T. F. Oyaniyi ruled that the defendant be remanded in Kirikiri until further hearings, stressing the seriousness of both the theft and defamation allegations. Legal experts have weighed in, stating that if convicted, Nifemi Friday could face a significant jail term, hefty fines, or both, depending on how the court evaluates the evidence presented against her.
Observers believe this case underscores the growing intersection between cyber laws, defamation statutes, and Nigeria’s justice system. While theft cases are common in retail businesses, the aspect of social media defamation is what makes this case particularly unique and legally complex. False allegations, especially those that can damage reputations and business credibility, are punishable under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and the Criminal Code.
Retail businesses across Lagos have been urged to tighten their security measures, including the use of surveillance cameras, digital transaction records, and background checks on employees, to curb theft and fraud. Meanwhile, legal experts are warning social media users to be more cautious with their words, as defamation cases involving WhatsApp, Facebook, X (Twitter), and TikTok are increasing in Nigerian courts.
As the legal battle continues, public interest remains high, with many awaiting further court developments. The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing and have encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid the inquiry.
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